Understanding different types of bodily growths and tumors is an important part of maintaining one’s health. From well-known issues, like ovarian cysts, to rare conditions, like Proteus Syndrome, each of these health concerns has unique symptoms and treatment plans. This article will explore a range of bodily growths, providing information about their causes, symptoms, and potential treatments. Being informed about these conditions can help you detect early signs of growths or tumors, and seek medical attention promptly. Please note that while some of these are commonly harmless, any unusual growth or change in your body must be evaluated by a health professional.
1. Elephant Man:
Contents
- 1 1. Elephant Man:
- 2 2. Neurofibromatosis:
- 3 3. Ovarian Cyst:
- 4 4. Ganglion Cyst:
- 5 5. Goiter:
- 6 6. Ocular Tumors:
- 7 7. Lipoma:
- 8 8. Tonsilloliths:
- 9 9. Uterine Fibroid:
- 10 10. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
- 11 11. Meningioma:
- 12 12. Keloids:
- 13 13. Teratoma:
- 14 14. Pilonidal Cyst:
- 15 15. Hemangiomas:
- 16 16. Angiokeratoma:
- 17 17. Sebaceous Cysts:
- 18 18. Hydrocele:
- 19 19. Keloids on Ears:
Perhaps the most horrific human growth in history was that suffered by Joseph Merrick, or ‘the Elephant Man.’ Merrick suffered from Proteus Syndrome, a rare condition that causes abnormal growth of the skin, bones, and other body parts.
2. Neurofibromatosis:
This is a genetic disorder that causes tumors to form on nerve tissue. These tumors can develop anywhere in the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and nerves.
3. Ovarian Cyst:
Ovarian cysts are fluid-filled sacs that grow on the ovaries. Many women will have an ovarian cyst at some point in their lifetime. Some cysts can become so large that they cause the ovary to move, increasing the chance of painful twisting of your ovary.
4. Ganglion Cyst:
These are noncancerous lumps that can develop along the tendons or joints of your wrists or hands. They can also appear on your ankles and feet. Ganglion cysts are typically round or oval and filled with a jellylike substance.
5. Goiter:
These are abnormal enlargements of your thyroid gland. Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland located at the base of your neck just below your Adam’s apple. Although goiters are painless, a large goiter can cause a cough and make it difficult for you to swallow or breathe.
6. Ocular Tumors:
Eye tumors can be benign or malignant and grow inside the eye. This can lead to vision impairment, eye bulge, and even loss of the eye.
7. Lipoma:
A lipoma is a growth of fatty tissue that slowly develops between your skin and the underlying muscle layer. A lipoma can feel doughy and is usually not tender.
8. Tonsilloliths:
Also known as tonsil stones, they are hard deposits that form in the tonsils. The accumulated materials, often normal components of the mouth, can become calcified forming hard stones that may cause discomfort, bad breath, and difficulties swallowing.
9. Uterine Fibroid:
These are noncancerous growths of the uterus that develop during a woman’s childbearing years. In some cases, these can become quite large and cause severe abdominal pain and heavy periods.
10. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome:
This is a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age. The ovaries may develop numerous small collections of fluid and fail to release eggs regularly.
11. Meningioma:
A meningioma is a tumor that originates in the meninges, the membranes that surround your brain and spinal cord. Most meningiomas are benign.
12. Keloids:
These are raised, reddish nodules that develop at the site of an injury, after the wound has healed. They can grow into large, bulbous formations that cause discomfort and cosmetic concerns.
13. Teratoma:
Teratomas are bizarre tumors that are usually benign. They are derived from germ cells, the cells that produce sperm and eggs, and can contain mature tissue of all three germ layers, sometimes including fully formed teeth and hair.
14. Pilonidal Cyst:
This is an abnormal pocket in the skin that usually contains hair and skin debris. It’s found at the base of the tailbone and can become infected, causing severe pain.
15. Hemangiomas:
These are benign tumors usually formed by an excess of blood vessels in the skin or internal organs.
16. Angiokeratoma:
This refers to small dark spots that develop on the skin, particularly on the lower extremities. They might resemble malignant melanomas visually, causing unnecessary fear.
17. Sebaceous Cysts:
These cysts occur due to blocked sebaceous glands in the skin. They become larger over time due to the constant production of sebum and dead skin cells.
18. Hydrocele:
This condition is common in newborn boys. It occurs when there’s an accumulation of fluid in the scrotum, causing it to swell.
19. Keloids on Ears:
These raised, reddish nodules often develop after ear piercings. It’s an overgrowth of scar tissue at the site of a skin wound.