Polyp: meaning, definitions and examples

A polyp is often used to describe a small growth, usually benign, that forms on the lining of organs such as the colon, stomach, or nose. It is usually detected during medical check-ups and can sometimes develop into cancer if left untreated.

• The doctor found a polyp during the colonoscopy and recommended removing it
• Nasal polyps can cause breathing difficulties

Growth is a general term for any abnormal mass of tissue, whether benign or malignant. It can occur in any part of the body and often needs further testing to determine its nature.

• The patient was concerned about the new growth on their arm
• The doctor said it could be a harmless growth, but further tests are needed

A tumor is a mass of tissue that results from the abnormal growth of cells. Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous) and require medical evaluation to determine the appropriate treatment.

• The doctor discovered a benign tumor in her breast during the examination
• He was diagnosed with a malignant brain tumor

Lesion refers to any abnormal change in tissue, usually caused by injury or disease. It is a broad term that can include ulcers, sores, tumors, and other kinds of tissue damage.

• The biopsy showed the skin lesion was not cancerous
• The MRI revealed a brain lesion, which needs further investigation

Used primarily in medical or biological contexts. In medicine, it refers to a growth of tissue inside the body. In biology, it describes a stage in the life cycle of some aquatic organisms.

• The doctor removed a benign polyp from the patient's colon.
• The coral reef is made up of tiny polyp organisms.

Used when referring specifically to the small marine animals that build coral reefs. It highlights their role in forming the reef structure rather than their individual biology.

• Coral animals play a critical role in creating and maintaining coral reefs.
• The Great Barrier Reef is home to millions of tiny coral animals.

Used specifically in biology to describe a phylum of aquatic invertebrates that includes organisms like jellyfish, sea anemones, and corals.

• Cnidarians often have specialized cells called cnidocytes for capturing prey.
• The marine biologist studied the life cycle of various cnidarian species.