Which of the following tumors is malignant even though its name does not carry the suffix '-carcinoma' or '-sarcoma'?
- A Chondroma
- B Leiomyoma
- C Melanoma ✓
- D Papillary hidradenoma
Correct answer: C. Melanoma
Explanation
Melanoma is a malignant neoplasm of melanocytes despite its benign-sounding '-oma' ending. Other exceptions to the standard nomenclature include lymphoma, mesothelioma, and seminoma, all of which are malignant. Leiomyoma, chondroma, and papillary hidradenoma are genuinely benign tumors of smooth muscle, cartilage, and sweat gland origin respectively. Recognizing these naming exceptions is a classic examination trap because students assume the '-oma' suffix implies a benign lesion.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.