What is malignant disease?

A malignant disease is a disease in which abnormal cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, invading and destroying healthy tissue. Malignant diseases are also commonly known as cancer. Cancerous cells can spread from where they first develop to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream.

Malignant diseases are characterised by several key features, including:

- Uncontrolled cell division: Malignant cells divide rapidly and uncontrollably, unlike healthy cells which grow and divide in an organised manner.

- Invasion and destruction: Cancerous cells have the ability to invade and destroy surrounding healthy tissues and structures. This invasion can cause damage to organs and tissues, leading to various signs and symptoms of cancer.

- Metastasis: Malignant tumours can metastasise, meaning that cancerous cells spread from the original site to other parts of the body through the lymphatic system or bloodstream. Metastasis is a common characteristic of malignant disease and is a major cause of cancer-related death.

- Lack of differentiation: Cancerous cells often lose the specialised functions and characteristics of their original cell type. They become less specialised and take on a more primitive appearance.

- Angiogenesis: Malignant diseases stimulate the growth of new blood vessels, a process called angiogenesis, which supplies the growing tumour with oxygen and nutrients.

Understanding the characteristics and behaviour of malignant diseases is essential for cancer treatment and management. Various diagnostic techniques, such as biopsies and imaging tests, are used to detect and monitor malignancies. Treatment options may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy, among others, depending on the type and stage of the disease.