Lipoma

Question 1

Define lipoma.

Answer 1

Benign tumours composed of adipose tissue.

Can occur in any area of the body, although they are most frequently found on the trunk or proximal limbs. Most commonly found in subcutaneous tissues.

Question 2

Explain the aetiology/risk factors of lipomas.

Answer 2

Idiopathic, may have genetic component

Genetic
Trauma
Heavy alcohol consumption

Question 3

Summarise the epidemiology of lipomas.

Answer 3

Approximately 1% of the general population has a lipoma. Although they can occur at any age, they are most common between 40 and 60 years of age. Congenital lipomas have been reported in children.

Question 4

Recognise the presenting symptoms of lipomas.

Answer 4

Muscle weakness
Paraesthesia

Question 5

Recognise the signs of a lipoma on physical examination.

Answer 5

Soft, mobile, superficial mass
GI obstruction
GI bleeding

Question 6

Identify appropriate investigations for a lipoma and interpret the results.

Answer 6

Biopsy
MRI
CT
Ultrasound

Question 7

What is the management for a lipoma?

Answer 7

Observation

Surgical excision

Liposuction

Lipolysis

Question 8

What are complications associated with a lipoma?

Answer 8

Wound infection

Seroma

Haematoma/ecchymosis

Nerve injury

Vascular compromise

Keloid or hypertrophic scarring

Question 9

What is the prognosis of a lipoma?

Answer 9

Untreated, cutaneous lipomas tend to slowly increase in size or remain static. If excised, the majority heal without incident. There is a 1% to 2% recurrence rate, and these may require re-excision if the lesion increases in size or is symptomatic. Lesions treated with liposuction and lipolysis have a higher recurrence rates due to incomplete removal of the original lesion.