Lipoma is a benign tumor made up of fat cells. It usually grows slowly in the tissue beneath the skin. Lipomas are very common. The patient may have just one lipoma or several at the same time.
Liposarcoma is a rare malignant tumor. Liposarcoma is a deep-seated tumor that most commonly develops in the thighs, groin, or back of the abdomen. If the lipoma is enlarged or painful, one may need a skin biopsy as soon as possible to rule out liposarcoma.
The cause of lipoma is unknown. Some studies have shown that lipoma may be related to genetic factors, because some patients have a history of lipoma in their families. Lipomas may also occur if the skin suffers injuries such as blunt trauma.
People of all ages can develop lipomas. They usually occur after adulthood and especially in middle age. Men or women can also develop lipomas.
Many patients do not pay attention to when the lipoma begins to grow, but as the lipoma grows larger and larger and becomes visible and palpable, patients will become more and more aware of the lipoma. Lipomas can grow very slowly over several years.
Diameter usually varies from 2-10 cm. The shape is round or oval.
It feels soft and smooth and can be gently pushed and slid under the skin with your fingers.
Lipomas are most common on the shoulders, neck, trunk, and arms, but can be found anywhere on the body.
Most lipomas are asymptomatic, but some are painful when pressed. If the lipoma becomes painful, then it is could be another type of lipoma called angiolipoma.
Lipoma can usually be diagnosed by clinical physical examination. However, lipomas can be confused with other sarcomas or hemangiomas. If needed, magnetic resonance imaging can be done to increase the accuracy of diagnosis. Finally, a skin biopsy may be performed to confirm the diagnosis.
Lipomas do not always require treatment. If there are no symptoms or discomfort then there is no need to worry about it.
However, if the lipoma grows rapidly, affects its appearance, or is even painful, surgery may be considered to remove it.
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