Which of the following defines a neoplasm?

• A. A normal tissue proliferation
• B. A new growth from uncontrolled development that can be benign or malignant
• C. An infection
• D. A form of inflammation

Answer: (B)

A neoplasm is a new, abnormal growth that results from uncontrolled cellular proliferation driven by genetic changes. This growth becomes independent of the body’s normal growth controls and is often clonal, meaning it arises from a single cell line. Neoplasms can be benign, staying localized and non-invasive, or malignant, with invasive behavior and potential to metastasize. It is not a normal tissue proliferation seen in development or healing, not an infection caused by a pathogen, and not a form of inflammation, which is the body's response to injury or infection. Therefore, a neoplasm best fits the description of a new growth from uncontrolled development that can be benign or malignant.