What do you call a new and abnormal growth or formation of tissue?

The term that accurately describes a new and abnormal growth or formation of tissue is "neoplasm." This word is derived from Greek roots meaning "new" (neo) and "formation" (plasma), emphasizing its nature of being an abnormal proliferation of cells. Neoplasms can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous), making the term applicable across a wide spectrum of conditions involving abnormal tissue growth.

While "tumor" can also refer to an abnormal growth, it is a more general term that can denote any swelling or mass, which might not always involve new tissue growth. "Cyst" refers specifically to a sac-like structure that can be filled with fluid or semi-solid material and does not necessarily imply new tissue formation. Similarly, "lesion" is a broad term that signifies any abnormal tissue irregularity but does not specifically indicate new growth; it can encompass various types of tissue damage or disease states.

Understanding these distinctions helps clarify the specific medical terminology used in pathology and neoplastic disease characterization. This allows for more accurate communication and comprehension of various conditions within the field of mortuary science and medicine.