Which of the following characteristics is true for benign tumors?

Benign tumors exhibit specific characteristics that differentiate them from malignant tumors. One of the most defining traits of benign tumors is their tendency to remain localized. They do not invade surrounding tissues in a destructive manner, which is a common trait of malignant tumors. Additionally, benign tumors are often encapsulated; this encapsulation helps contain the tumor and prevents it from spreading into neighboring tissues.

Another feature of benign tumors is that they usually have a smooth surface and can be freely movable when palpated, which helps in distinguishing them from more aggressive forms of tumors. This combination of remaining localized, being encapsulated, and having a smooth and movable appearance contributes to the overall behavior of benign tumors, making them less threatening and easier to manage than their malignant counterparts.

The other characteristics listed in the other choices, such as irregular shape and the potential for lymph node invasion, rapid growth, metastasis, and poor differentiation, are typically associated with malignant tumors, not benign ones. These traits highlight the more aggressive nature of malignancies, contrasting sharply with the typically indolent growth and localized behavior of benign tumors.