What is a primary characteristic of a benign tumor?

A primary characteristic of a benign tumor is that it does not spread to other parts of the body. This means that while a benign tumor can grow and may cause local issues depending on its size and location, it remains localized and typically does not invade surrounding tissues in the same aggressive manner as malignant tumors. This characteristic is significant in distinguishing benign tumors from malignant ones, as the latter are known for their invasive behavior and ability to metastasize or spread throughout the body.

Understanding this distinction is critical in healthcare, as the management and treatment approaches for benign tumors are often far less aggressive compared to those required for malignant tumors. For instance, many benign tumors can be monitored or removed surgically without the need for more extensive treatments like chemotherapy, which is commonly indicated for malignant tumors that do spread.