Lipomas are Benign tumors that are comprised of fat. These often present as small mobile painless masses just below the skin. Another type of lipoma can form inside muscles. Occasionally, a patient will notice the tumor grow in size. These are common in the trunk region, but are seen in the arms and legs as well. An MRI is often very helpful in evaluating these tumors. X-ray findings, along with the history, are often used to make the diagnosis.
Lipoma near the shoulder with preop xray and MRI.
The treatment ranges from observation to surgical removal. Smaller lipomas can be observed with x-ray imaging every several months to ensure that they are not growing. Fatty tumors that are large, painful, or are increasing in size are considered for resection.
Lipoma of the shoulder after resection measures 12x8x5 cm
The recurrence rate after surgical removal of these tumors is quite low.
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Last Updated ( Monday, 12 November 2007 )
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