Lipoma

Question 1

Define Lipoma?

Answer 1

Slow-growing, benign adipose tumours that are most often found in the subcutaneous tissues

Question 2

What is the aetiology of Lipoma?

Answer 2

Benign tumours of adipocytes

Question 3

What conditions are associated with Lipomas?

Answer 3

Familial multiple lipomatosis
Gardner’s Syndrome
Dercum’s Disease
Madelung’s Disease

Question 4

What is Liposarcoma?

Answer 4

Rare malignant tumour of adipose tissue

Question 5

What is the epidemiology of Lipomas?

Answer 5

Can be seen at any age but more common between 40-60 yrs

Relatively COMMON

Question 6

What are the presenting symptoms and signs of Lipoma?

Answer 6

Most are asymptomatic
Compression of nerves can cause pain
Soft or firm nodule
Smooth normal surface
Skin coloured 
Most are < 5 cm in diameter 
Mobile 
Soft/doughy feel

Question 7

What investigations would you do for Lipoma?

Answer 7

Usually CLINICAL diagnosis

US/MRI/CT used if there is doubt about the diagnosis