Swelling is a common term with a general
meaning. Swelilng indicates that n organ
(or part of it) is enlarged. In their
basic root meanings, the terms
“swelling” and “tumor” are
synonyms. Both indicate an organ or body
part enlargement.
Talsohe term “swelling ” is used as a
synonym for the Latin term “edema”.
“Edema” means increased quantity of
liquid in the space between cells
(interstitial space). Edema causes
enlargement (swelling) of the whole body,
some body parts, organs or part of an
organ. Edema is present in two main
conditions: during inflammation and
circulatory stasis. Inflammations are
caused by infections or injuries. During
injuries, inflammation AND possible
hemorrhages in a closed space (haematoma)
can cause swelling. Circulatory stasis can
be either local (venous thrombosis) or
general (heart failure).
The term “tumor” is usually used
(incorrectly) as a synonym for the Latin
term “neoplasm”. Neoplasm indicates
newly created tissue that originates from
previously normal cells that have lost
their control of proper division and
function. Such cells divide themselves and
increase their number without control that
lead to organ enlargement (swelling) in
some types of neoplasm. In tumors,
enlargement is caused by an increase of
the number of tissue cells and not
interstitial liquid. Tumor is an incorrect
synonym for neoplasm because in many cases
there is no enlargement of the organ, but
rather, destruction of the cells, tissue,
and organ (malignant neoplasm). Some types
of neoplasm such as leukemia cannot be
officially called "tumors", for example.
In many cases it is physically impossible
to note a difference between swelling and
a tumor (neoplasm). If the swelling is
caused by inflammation there are
accompanying symptoms of pain, redness,
warmness and disturbed function. Tumors,
however, are not usually followed by these
additional symptoms. Benign tumors are
always manifested with some kind of tissue
enlargement. Malignant tumors of the
penis are usually manifested with
ulceration.
The first diagnostic procedure for penis
tumor or swelling is physical examination
that includes inspection and palpation.
That’s why I recommend you to visit your
GP and if necessary he will send you to an
urologist.
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