Which term describes a cancerous neoplasm with the potential to spread?

The term that describes a cancerous neoplasm with the potential to spread is malignant. Malignant tumors are characterized by uncontrolled growth and the ability to invade nearby tissues and metastasize, meaning they can spread to other parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This invasive behavior is a hallmark of cancerous cells, distinguishing them from benign tumors, which do not invade surrounding tissues and are not considered life-threatening.

In contrast, benign neoplasms grow locally and are typically not associated with the risk of spreading to other areas of the body, making them less dangerous overall. The term pre-cancerous refers to conditions or lesions that have the potential to develop into cancer but are not yet malignant. Carcinogenic, on the other hand, describes substances or factors that can lead to the formation of cancer but does not specifically refer to the characteristics of a tumor itself.

Understanding these distinctions is crucial in the field of oncology and breast health navigation, as it informs treatment decisions and patient care strategies.