What types of tumors are often removed by surgery?
Surgical intervention is frequently employed in the removal of different types of tumors, depending on their location, size, and overall characteristics. Some common types of tumors that are often managed through surgical procedures include:1. Benign Tumors:
- Lipomas: These are fatty tumors usually found under the skin.
- Fibromas: Firm and fibrous tumors that can develop in various body areas.
- Adenomas: Noncancerous tumors arising from glands, such as the thyroid or salivary glands.
2. Malignant tumors (cancerous):
- Carcinomas: These arise from epithelial cells, which cover the internal and external surfaces of the body and form various organs. Some examples are breast cancer, lung cancer, and colon cancer.
- Sarcomas: They originate from connective tissues, including bone, cartilage, muscle, and fat. Examples are osteosarcoma (bone cancer) and soft tissue sarcomas.
- Lymphomas: Cancers of the lymphatic system, including Hodgkin lymphoma and non-Hodgkin lymphoma.
3. Brain tumors:
- Meningiomas: Arising from the meninges surrounding the brain and spinal cord.
-Gliomas: Tumors originating from the glial cells within the brain.
4. Skin Cancers:
- Basal cell carcinoma: Most commonly occurring on sun-exposed areas.
- Squamous cell carcinoma: Commonly affects areas like the face, neck, ears, and hands.
- Melanoma: The most aggressive form of skin cancer that arises from pigment-producing cells (melanocytes).
5. Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths that develop within the wall of the uterus.
6. Ovarian Cysts: Fluid-filled sacs that can be present in the ovaries.
7. Thyroid Nodules: Solid or fluid-filled growths in the thyroid gland.
However, it's essential to note that surgical removal isn't always feasible or appropriate for all types or stages of tumors. Treatment decisions primarily depend on various factors such as the tumor's location, type, size, and its potential impact on neighboring structures. Multidisciplinary teams of medical professionals determine the most suitable treatment plan, which may involve surgery in conjunction with other modalities like radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or targeted therapies.