Which characteristic is most suggestive of a benign tumor?

A Low mitotic activity

B Presence of nuclear pleomorphism

C Invasion of surrounding tissues

D Necrosis within the lesion

Solution

Correct Answer: Option A

- Low mitotic activity is most suggestive of a benign tumor because it indicates slow cell proliferation, which correlates with a less aggressive growth pattern.
- Benign tumors typically show well-differentiated cells, minimal atypia, and lack invasive behavior.
- In contrast, nuclear pleomorphism, tissue invasion, and necrosis are features commonly associated with malignant tumors.

Therefore, low mitotic figures help distinguish benign from malignant lesions by reflecting limited cell division and growth.

Reference: Robbins Basic Pathology, 10th Ed., Chapter 7, p. 35

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