Certified Tumor Registrar (CTR) Practice Exam

The term 'neoplastic' specifically refers to the process of tumor formation. It originates from the Greek word 'neoplasia,' which signifies new growth or formation. Neoplastic tissue can be benign, meaning non-cancerous, or malignant, indicating cancerous behavior. When dealing with neoplasms, it involves abnormal proliferation of cells that can lead to the formation of tumors, which may disrupt normal bodily functions depending on their location and characteristics. In contrast, the other terms listed represent different biological processes. The term associated with infection pertains to the invasion of pathogens and the response of the immune system. Inflammation describes the body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, swelling, and pain. Degeneration refers to the deterioration of cells, tissues, or organs, often due to aging or disease processes, which is unrelated to tumor growth. Thus, the focus of 'neoplastic' is exclusively tied to the realm of tumors and their properties.