What do malignant tumors primarily do?

Malignant tumors primarily infiltrate surrounding tissue and have the ability to create secondary tumors, a process known as metastasis. This characteristic distinguishes malignant tumors from benign ones, which typically remain localized and do not invade adjacent tissues or spread to distant sites. Malignant tumors can invade surrounding organs and structures, disrupting normal tissue function and leading to additional complications. The capacity to spread is what makes them particularly dangerous, as they can establish secondary tumors in distant parts of the body through the bloodstream or lymphatic system. This aspect is crucial for understanding the aggressive nature of malignant cancers and highlights the need for prompt and effective treatment interventions.