What does a malignant tumor tend to do?

A malignant tumor is characterized by its ability to grow uncontrollably and infiltrate surrounding tissues, leading to significant progression over time. Unlike benign tumors, which stay localized and do not spread to other parts of the body, malignant tumors possess the potential to metastasize, meaning they can break away from the original site and travel through the bloodstream or lymphatic system to establish new tumors in distant organs. This aggressive nature is what makes them progressively worse, as they can impact bodily functions and overall health. The progression can lead to increased size, additional symptoms, and complications that can ultimately be life-threatening, which is why choosing the option that describes a malignant tumor's tendency to become progressively worse aligns with its clinical behavior.