Which statement best describes malignant neoplasms?

• A. Non-invasive
• B. Invades tissue and can metastasize
• C. Always encapsulated
• D. Benign features

Answer: (B)

Malignant neoplasms are defined by their ability to invade surrounding tissues and to metastasize to distant sites. This invasive behavior reflects loss of cell–cell adhesion and the ability to degrade extracellular matrix, allowing cancer cells to spread through blood or lymphatic vessels. In contrast, benign neoplasms tend to stay localized and are often encapsulated, without invading nearby structures or spreading to distant sites. Therefore, the statement that best describes malignant neoplasms is that they invade tissue and can metastasize.