What describes a neoplasm?

A neoplasm is defined as an abnormal growth of tissue that can form a mass, commonly referred to as a tumor. It encompasses a variety of types of growths, including benign tumors, which do not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize; primary tumors, which originate in a specific organ or tissue; and metastatic tumors, which originate from cancer cells that have spread from other parts of the body. This definition captures the complexity of neoplasms and their potential impact on health.

In contrast, the remaining options describe different entities. A fluid-filled cyst in the brain is not a neoplasm but rather a cystic structure that may not involve abnormal cell proliferation. An infection in the central nervous system is characterized by the presence of pathogens and inflammation, which does not represent a growth of abnormal tissue. A temporary brain disturbance from trauma implies a functional disruption rather than an abnormal increase in cell growth. Understanding the characteristics of neoplasms is crucial for recognizing and differentiating them from other medical conditions.