Malignant tumors are typically characterized by:

Malignant tumors are indeed defined by their rapid growth and ability to spread to other parts of the body, a process known as metastasis. This aggressive nature is a hallmark of malignancy, distinguishing these tumors from benign ones, which tend to grow slowly and remain localized.

Malignant tumors often invade surrounding tissues and can break off to travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to establish new tumors in distant organs. This characteristic of being aggressive and invasive contributes significantly to their potential for harm, making early detection and treatment crucial in managing cancer effectively. Understanding this behavior of malignant tumors is critical for medical professionals, as it guides treatment strategies and prognostic assessments for patients.