Lipoma (patient information)

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Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1] Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Jinhui Wu, M.D. Sahar Memar Montazerin, M.D.[2]

Lipomas are benign, slow-growing tumors that come from fat cells and grow under the skin. They are usually soft, round and movable lumps. Lipomas can occur at any age, but they are most common during middle age from 40 to 60 years old. Because lipomas are benign and harmless, treatment generally isn't necessary. But if the lipoma is in a bothersome location, is painful, or is growing, it should be removed.

• Lipoma is usually asymptomatic. However, it may be painful.
• Lipomas are often located under the skin. They often affect the neck, shoulders, back, arms and thighs.
• They are usually less than 2 inches or 5 centimeters in diameter. Large lipomas are usually less than 10 cm.

• The exact cause of lipomas is not clear. Studies suggest injury may help the development of lipoma.
• Genetic factors likely play a role in the development of lipomas.

• Diagnosis is usually made clinically and by physical examination of the lump.
• Physical examination: Usually, a doctor can make a diagnosis by physical examination of the lump.
• Biopsy of the lump may be needed when:
  • There is a doubt in the diagnosis.
  • The lump grows rapidly.
• Imaging studies such as ultrasound and/or CT scan may also be used if liposarcoma (malignant form of lipoma) is suspected.

• A lipoma is rarely a serious medical condition. However, a rapidly growing mass needs further evaluations.

• Treatment options for lipoma include:
  • Surgical excision
  • Deoxycholate injections
  • Liposuction

• Liposarcoma
• Neurofibroma

Directions to Hospitals Treating lipoma

For the exact cause of lipomas is not very clear, there is no effective method to prevent it. According to possible risk factors of lipoma, the following measures may be helpful.

• Avoidance injury
• Screen test of HMG I-C gene for people with a family history of mesenchymal tumors and familial multiple lipomatosis.

• The outlook of lipoma is always good.