Can an encapsulated tumor be malignant?

Yes, an encapsulated tumor can be malignant. An encapsulated tumor means the tumor is surrounded by a layer of tissue that separates it from the surrounding normal tissue. This type of tumor is often considered less aggressive compared to tumors that are not encapsulated, as the capsule may help prevent the tumor from spreading to nearby tissues. However, it's important to note that encapsulation alone does not determine the malignancy of a tumor. Some encapsulated tumors can still be cancerous and have the potential to spread and cause harm. Therefore, it's crucial for a pathologist to examine the tumor sample under a microscope and conduct necessary tests to determine its exact nature and malignancy level.