Pronunciation: [nˈiːə͡ʊplˌazəmz] (IPA) 
The word "neoplasms" refers to abnormal growths or tumors in the body. The spelling of this word can be a bit tricky. The first two letters "ne" are pronounced /niː/, while the "o" is pronounced as a short /ɒ/. The following three letters "pla" are pronounced as /plə/, with the emphasis on the second syllable. Finally, the "s" is pronounced as /s/. So, the correct phonetic transcription of "neoplasms" is /ˈniːəʊplæzəmz/.
Neoplasms, commonly referred to as tumors, are abnormal, uncontrolled growths of cells that develop into a mass or lump. These growths can occur in various parts of the body, including organs, tissues, and bones. Neoplasms can be benign or malignant, depending on their characteristics and potential to spread to other parts of the body.
Benign neoplasms are typically slow-growing, well-encapsulated, and localized, meaning they are confined to a specific area and do not invade surrounding tissues. Unlike malignant neoplasms, they rarely pose a threat to life unless they compress vital structures, causing functional impairment. Surgical removal or treatment usually resolves benign neoplasms.
Malignant neoplasms, on the other hand, are cancerous growths that have the potential to invade nearby tissues and spread to distant sites through a process called metastasis. They can manifest in many forms, such as carcinomas, adenocarcinomas, sarcomas, and lymphomas. Malignant neoplasms often exhibit rapid growth, infiltration of surrounding structures, and may display features like irregular borders, necrosis, and abnormal cellular characteristics. Treating malignant neoplasms often involves a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies.
The diagnosis and management of neoplasms involve various medical specialties, including oncology, pathology, radiology, and surgery. Early detection through screening and timely intervention significantly improve outcomes for patients with neoplasms. Ongoing research is focused on better understanding the causes, risk factors, and molecular mechanisms underlying neoplasm development, with the aim of developing improved diagnostic tools and innovative treatments.
The word neoplasm is derived from the Greek roots neo- meaning new and -plasma meaning formation or growth.
