Tumors are tissue cell clusters that form growths in the body. They occur when cell turnover is affected and prevent old cells from dying. The old cells build up with new cells and form a lump. Tumors are classified as malignant (cancerous) or benign (non-cancerous). Benign tumors can affect various parts of the body without spreading to other areas.
Muscle
According to the American Cancer Society, one of the most common benign muscle tumors are leiomyomas. These tumors can develop in the walls of blood vessels and therefore can amass on any internal organs (known as smooth muscles). The American Cancer Society reports that leiomyomas occur most often in the walls of the uterus. Benign tumors that occur in skeletal muscle tissue (such as legs or arms) are known as rhabdomyomas, but they are much less common than leiomyomas.
Fat
Benign tumors that develop in fat tissue are known as lipomas. According to the American Cancer Society, lipomas are the most frequently occurring tumor in soft tissues. Lipomas are solid masses that usually grow underneath the skin's surface, but above the muscle. They rarely occur in other parts of the body. Lipoblastomas are another fat-tissue benign tumor similar to the more common lipomas, but the American Cancer Society reports they are only found in babies and children.
Nerve
Nerve tissue can potentially develop a number of benign tumors. The American Cancer Society states that nerve tumors can affect nearly any part of the body. Benign tumors generally develop in the peripheral nervous system, the collection of nerves that transmit messages to and from the brain and spinal cord. Neuromas and neurilemomas are benign nerve tumors that can develop in any nerve groups. Neurofibromatosis is a genetic disorder that results in constant benign nerve tumors that can potentially become cancerous over time.
Joint
Benign tumors of the joints often start in the synovium, a barrier tissue that protects the joints. The tissue releases a lubricant to aid in proper joint movement. One of the most frequent types of joint tumor is a nodular tenosynovitis, which develops in the synovium tissue. According to the American Cancer Society, nodular tenosynovitis occurs most often in the hands and is more likely to afflict women than men.
Blood Vessel
Blood vessel tumors can be genetic or develop over time. One of the most frequent types of benign blood vessel tumors are hemangiomas, which can occur in internal organs or skin. The American Cancer Society reports that hemangiomas can subside without surgery. Glomus vessel tumors develop in the blood vessels underneath fingers. Benign tumors that occur in lymph (a circulatory fluid in blood vessels) are known as lymphangiomas. Lymphangiomas are genetic and may occur during fetal development.
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