Histopathology basics · USMLE Step 1

Which of the following is the most appropriate description of a malignant tumor (cancer) under histopathological criteria?

  1. Well-differentiated, slow-growing mass with capsule and no invasion
  2. Atypia, basement-membrane invasion, and metastatic potential
  3. Normal architecture preserved but increased cell number
  4. An adaptive cell type change in response to chronic injury
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Correct answer: Atypia, basement-membrane invasion, and metastatic potential

Malignant neoplasms show disordered architecture, cytologic atypia, capacity to invade surrounding tissues through the basement membrane, and potential for metastasis — distinguishing them from benign or reactive lesions.

Difficulty: Medium Question 12 of 22

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