HOSA Dental Terminology Practice 2026 – All-in-One Study Guide for Exam Success!

A neoplasm arising from epithelial cells is referred to as carcinoma, which is a type of cancer. Carcinomas originate in the epithelial tissue that lines organs and forms the surface layer of the skin, as well as various internal organs. This classification implies that these tumors have the potential to invade surrounding tissues and metastasize (spread to other parts of the body).

While granulomas and hemangiomas are also types of neoplasms, they arise from different tissues and have distinct characteristics: granulomas typically represent a chronic inflammatory reaction rather than a malignant growth, while hemangiomas are benign tumors composed of blood vessels. Papillomas, although also arising from epithelial cells, are benign tumors caused by viral infections and do not possess the aggressive characteristics associated with carcinomas. Thus, carcinoma is the appropriate term to denote an epithelial neoplasm, particularly in a malignant context.