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"Cyst" vs. "tumor": understanding the difference

Reviewed and edited by Anwar Kareem 16/02/2025, 18:32
English.me team member
Cyst and tumor. What's the difference?

What is similar?

Both "cyst" and "tumor" refer to abnormal growths in the body and can be associated with swelling or masses. They can occur in various tissues or organs and may require medical diagnosis to determine their nature.

What is different?

A "cyst" is typically a fluid-filled sac that can be benign and may not always require treatment, while a "tumor" refers to a growth of tissue, which can be benign or malignant (cancerous) and often requires further evaluation.

Which one is more common?

Internet search results for cyst) and tumor

Examples of usage

Cyst
  • The doctor drained the cyst that had developed on her wrist.
  • An ovarian cyst can sometimes cause severe abdominal pain.
  • The radiologist confirmed that the lump was just a benign cyst.
Tumor
  • The patient was relieved to learn that the tumor was benign.
  • A biopsy was conducted to determine if the tumor was cancerous.
  • Brain tumors can sometimes affect a person's cognition and motor skills.

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