Intermediate
Technical
IVT
precancerous lesion
Abnormal tissue with increased risk of progressing to invasive cancer.
Full Definition
A precancerous lesion is an abnormal tissue change that carries an elevated risk of transforming into invasive cancer over time, though not all such lesions will progress to malignancy. These lesions represent intermediate stages in carcinogenesis and are primary targets for cancer screening programs. Examples include cervical dysplasia, colorectal adenomas, and ductal carcinoma in situ of the breast. Early detection and treatment of precancerous lesions can prevent progression to invasive cancer.
In Context
- "The pathologist identified a precancerous lesion requiring close surveillance." — Histopathology report
- "Screening programs focus on detecting and treating precancerous lesions before malignant transformation." — Clinical guideline
Also known as
premalignant lesion
dysplastic lesion
Contrasted with
benign lesion
invasive cancer
Don't confuse with
early-stage cancer
atypical lesion