An invaluable resource of health information.
Health Encyclopedia
Health Encyclopedia
Benign
The term "benign" refers to a condition, tumor, or growth that is NOT cancerous. This means that it does not spread to other parts of the body or destroy nearby tissue. Benign tumors usually grow slowly.
In general, a benign tumor or condition is not harmful. However, this is not always the case. If a benign tumor is big enough, it can press on nearby blood vessels, nerves, or organs, or otherwise cause problems. This is especially true for benign brain tumors.
The opposite of benign is malignant.
Review Date: 2/23/2009
Reviewed By: David C. Dugdale, III, MD, Professor of Medicine, Division of General Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2012 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
Christie Clinic on University
Christie Clinic on Windsor/Convenient Care
Christie Clinic at Provena Covenant
Christie Clinic in Rantoul
Christie Clinic in Mahomet
Christie Clinic in Danville on Vermilion/Convenient Care
Christie Clinic in Tuscola
CU Sleep
Christie Clinic Cancer Center
Christie Clinic in Urbana/Convenient Care
Convenient Care in County Market (Kirby & Duncan)
Christie Clinic in Danville on Logan
Christie Clinic on Fox Drive
Kirby Medical Group
Christie Clinic in Mattoon
Christie Clinic on Gregory
Sarah Bush Lincoln Heath System