HOSA Dental Terminology Practice

What type of tumor is referred to as a hemangioma?

1. Benign neoplasm

2. Small yellow nodules in skin

3. Infection of the mucous membrane

4. Prominent point on the nose

The correct answer is: Benign neoplasm

A hemangioma is classified as a benign neoplasm, which means it is a non-cancerous tumor that arises from blood vessels. These tumors are characterized by an abnormal proliferation of blood vessels and commonly appear as red or purple marks on the skin. They are most frequently observed in infants and can vary in size. Given that hemangiomas do not invade surrounding tissues or spread to other parts of the body like malignant tumors, they are considered benign. The other options do not accurately define a hemangioma. Small yellow nodules in the skin could refer to other skin conditions, such as sebaceous cysts or xanthomas, but they are not related to hemangiomas. An infection of the mucous membrane pertains to different medical conditions entirely, such as viral or bacterial infections, and does not involve tumors. A prominent point on the nose does not describe a hemangioma but may refer to other anatomical features or abnormalities that are not tumor-related.