What typically characterizes the growth of malignant cells as opposed to benign cells?

Malignant cells are characterized by rapid growth and the ability to migrate beyond their original site, which distinguishes them from benign cells. This rapid proliferation is due to their uncontrolled division, where the regulatory mechanisms that normally control cell growth and apoptosis are disrupted. As malignant cells grow, they can invade nearby tissues and spread to distant sites through a process called metastasis, which is a hallmark of cancer.

In contrast, benign cells typically grow slowly and are usually encapsulated, meaning they are contained within a defined boundary and do not invade surrounding tissues. They also tend to have a more organized structure and are well-differentiated, maintaining more normal cell functions compared to malignant cells. This encapsulation and the inability to metastasize are key differentiators that help in identifying benign tumors in medical assessments.