A mesenchymal neoplasm usually involves abnormal cell growth in the bone, connective tissue, or lymph and circulatory systems. Neoplastic cells can be benign or malignant and require evaluation and testing for a definitive diagnosis. Treatment modalities generally depend on whether the abnormality is a malignancy or presents secondary complications for the patient.
The term neoplasia refers to the presence of abnormal cell reproduction somewhere in the body. Determining whether the cells are benign or malignant usually requires a needle aspiration biopsy or surgical removal of the tissue in question. Through biochemical, histological and molecular tests, laboratory specialists analyze the type of tissue involved in the tumor.
A benign tumor usually stays small and grows slowly. This type of mesenchymal neoplasm is commonly contained within a fibrous or fatty capsule and does not invade surrounding areas. The overall growth appears smooth and the cells resemble those of the surrounding tissue. The genetic material inside the cells also often appears normal. Doctors often prefer to monitor growth for regular changes and do not recommend treatment unless the tumor is causing discomfort or affecting bodily functions or other organs.
Malignant tumors grow rapidly, invade surrounding tissues, and metastasize to other parts of the body. A mesenchymal neoplasm of this nature often appears irregular and does not have a limiting capsule. Cancer cells usually don't look like cells in surrounding areas, and tumors usually contain cells that vary in size and appearance. The vascular development in the tumor is usually abnormal and fragile, which commonly results in hemorrhage. Malignant tumors also often cause cell necrosis in normal tissues.
Oncologists commonly refer to a malignant mesenchymal neoplasm as a sarcoma. The specific name of the tumor usually accompanies the location of the growth followed by the term "sarcoma." Tumors in fibrous tissue, for example, may be called fibrosarcoma. Liposarcoma generally refers to tumors that develop in fatty tissue. Bone cancers are often called osteogenic sarcomas.
Benign neoplasms can occur due to hereditary conditions. Environmental, genetic, and viral factors can contribute to the development and growth of a cancerous mesenchymal neoplasm. Some families have a genetic predisposition to develop tumors. Researchers believe that Epstein-Barr and hepatitis viruses may contribute to cancer growth.
After a thorough evaluation and testing, doctors generally consider treatment based on the grade of the cancer. Classification generally involves the size of the mesenchymal neoplasm, whether or not the tumor has invaded surrounding tissues, and the degree of metastasis. Doctors may recommend chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery, or a combination of treatments that eliminate or minimize the mesenchymal neoplasia and associated symptoms.