A neoplasm, benign (tumor) is a non-cancerous (non-malignant) abnormal mass of tissue within the endocrine system that forms when cells in a localized area reproduce at an increased rate. The cells are derived from normal cells and continue to grow faster than the surrounding tissue, resulting in a tumor.

There is continuous neoplasia under conditions usually not conducive to normal cell production.

Signs and symptoms related to body organs include:

• Adrenals. See signs and symptoms of malignant neoplasms (Diagnostic Code: 7914 Neoplasm Malignant ) and of pheochromocytoma (Diagnostic Code: 7918 Pheochromocytoma)

• Hypothalamus. See signs and symptoms of malignant neoplasms (Diagnostic Code: 7914 Neoplasm Malignant).

• Thyroid. See signs and symptoms of malignant neoplasms (Diagnostic Code: 7914 Neoplasm Malignant), and thyroid gland toxic and non-toxic adenoma (Diagnostic Code: 7901 Thyroid enlargement, toxic and Diagnostic Code: 7902 Thyroid enlargement, non-toxic).

• Pituitary. See signs and symptoms of malignant neoplasms (Diagnostic Code: 7914 Neoplasm Malignant), and Cushing's syndrome (Diagnostic Code: 7907 Cushing's syndrome).

• Pancreas. The condition may cause obstructive symptoms of the biliary tract or to the duodenum itself. There may also be bleeding into the gastrointestinal tract. Functioning tumors may cause increased secretion of hormones resulting in several disorders including: hypoglycemia, excessive excretion of gastrin, excessive excretion of intestinal hormones, diabetes mellitus, Cushing's syndrome, and the development cholelithiasis or bilestones in the common duct.

Generally, biopsies or cytology studies are done to differentiate malignant or benign neoplasms. (See tests in Diagnostic Code: 7914 Neoplasm, Malignant).

Generally, treatment involves removal of the tumor, if operable, and the correction of affected hormonal levels. Neoplasms that are asymptomatic and do not cause alterations are observed for growth and changes. If tumors are inoperable, palliative care or treatment or both is indicated, e.g., chemotherapy and radiotherapy are instituted to control progression.

The residual effects from benign neoplasms depend on the organ affected and whether or not the organs are functional (hormone producing) or nonfunctional. In addition, depending on the size of the tumor, surrounding structures can also be affected. (See Diagnostic Code: 7914 Neoplasm, malignant, any specified part of the endocrine system)

• Consider service connection on a presumptive basis as a chronic condition (38 CFR §3.307; §3.309 (a)).

None.