What is the term for an abnormal growth of tissue?

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The term for an abnormal growth of tissue is "tumor." A tumor can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and represents a mass of tissue formed by an accumulation of abnormal cells. This growth occurs when cells divide and multiply uncontrollably, leading to an excess of tissue that can disrupt normal bodily functions.

While "lesion," "cyst," and "ulcer" also refer to various forms of abnormal tissue changes, they have more specific definitions. A lesion typically denotes any damage or abnormality in tissue, which could be the result of various conditions, not strictly a growth. A cyst refers specifically to a sac-like structure that may contain fluid, air, or semi-solid material, rather than an abnormal proliferation of tissue. An ulcer is a sore that develops on the skin or mucous membranes, often due to infections or chronic inflammation, and involves a breakdown of tissue rather than an abnormal growth. Therefore, "tumor" is the most accurate term to describe an abnormal growth of tissue in this context.