The classification of tumors herewith presented is essentially that of Virchow, with such extensions and modifications as have arisen in consequence of the investigations and discoveries during the twenty years which have elapsed since the delivery of his memorable series of lectures. Cysts are mentioned, as well as growths, from the importance of the former in practical medicine. The frequent simultaneous occurrence of cysts and growths in the same tumor should be mentioned, and the cystic feature is usually indicated as a qualification.
CYSTS.
Cavities, either new formed or pre-existing, with various contents. The latter are blood, liquid other than blood, and gland-secretion or retained secretion. The wall varies in structure in accordance with the method of origin of the cavity.
Hæmatoma.
A collection of extravasated blood, usually within the tissues. Examples, hæmatoma of the pericranium (periosteum), of the external ear, muscle, dura mater, ovary, broad ligament, vulva, anus, uterus (from retained placenta), hæmatocele, dissecting aneurism.
Hygroma.
A collection of transuded or exuded fluid in pre-existing or new-formed spaces. Examples, hydrocele, hydromeningocele, hydromyelocele, hydrencephalocele, ganglion, inflamed bursa.
Retention-Cyst.
An accumulation of retained secretion in follicles or canals from obstruction to its escape. Examples, atheroma and comedo of the skin, mucous cysts of the gastro-intestinal mucous membrane, ovula Nabothi, and cystic polypus of the uterus; retention-cyst of the antrum, vermiform appendage, gall-bladder, and bile-ducts; dropsical dilatation of the ovarian follicles, Fallopian tube, uterus (hydrometra), parovarium (cyst of the broad ligament); hydronephrosis and multilocular cystic kidney, spermatocele, ranula, galactocele.