Solid Tumors: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Medically reviewed by Harsha Moole, MD, Internal Medicine. Last reviewed: October 2, 2026.
What kind of doctor treats Solid Tumors?
An oncologist is a doctor who specializes in treating cancer. Medical oncologists give drug treatments, surgical oncologists remove tumors, and radiation oncologists deliver radiation therapy. Many people also see a surgeon or other specialists depending on where the tumor is located.
What it is
A solid tumor is a lump of abnormal cells that grows into a mass in an organ or tissue, such as the lung, breast, colon, or brain. This is different from blood cancers like leukemia, where cancer cells float in the blood instead of forming one mass. Some solid tumors are cancer and can spread; others are benign and do not spread. Doctors often need tests to tell the difference.
Symptoms
Symptoms depend on where the tumor is and how big it gets, and many cause no symptoms early on. Common signs include a lump you can feel, unexplained weight loss, lasting tiredness, or pain in one spot that will not quit. None of these signs means a person has cancer, but they are worth checking out.
Causes and who gets it
Solid tumors start when cells develop changes in their genes. These changes can be inherited, come from habits like smoking, or result from exposures such as too much sun or certain chemicals. Risk goes up with age and is higher for people who smoke, drink heavily, are very overweight, or have close family members who had certain cancers.
How doctors diagnose it
Imaging tests such as CT scans and MRIs can show the size and location of a mass. If a mass is found, doctors usually take a small sample, called a biopsy, and look at the cells under a microscope. Blood tests and other scans help determine whether the tumor has spread and give it a stage.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of tumor, its stage, and the person's overall health. Surgery removes the tumor and works best when it has not spread; radiation therapy kills cancer cells in a specific spot; chemotherapy uses medicines that travel through the whole body. Newer options include targeted drugs and immunotherapy, and many people get a combination of treatments.
When to see a doctor
Anyone who finds a new lump, loses weight without trying, or has symptoms lasting more than a few weeks should see a doctor. These signs often turn out to be caused by something other than cancer, but it is safer to get checked early. Many cancers are easier to treat when found sooner.
How a direct primary care or concierge doctor fits in
A direct primary care doctor charges a flat monthly fee instead of billing insurance, while a concierge doctor usually charges more and often works alongside insurance. Either can evaluate symptoms, order imaging and lab work, and manage benign findings. If cancer is suspected, they will refer the patient to an oncologist and help coordinate care.
Common questions
Is every solid tumor cancer?
No. Some are benign, meaning they grow but do not spread. Doctors usually need a biopsy to know for sure.
Does finding a lump mean I have cancer?
Not usually. Many lumps are cysts, swollen glands, or other harmless conditions, but any new lump should still be checked.
Can solid tumors be prevented?
Not all of them, but not smoking, keeping a healthy weight, limiting alcohol, and getting recommended screenings all help lower risk.
Sources
- MedlinePlus - Cancer
- National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) - RET-Altered Solid Tumors - National Organization for Rare Disorders
Medical Disclaimer
This content is for general educational and informational purposes only and is not medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and reading it does not create a doctor-patient relationship. Always seek the advice of your physician or another qualified health provider with any questions about a medical condition, and never disregard or delay seeking professional advice because of something you read here. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call 911 (or your local emergency number) immediately.
