Symptoms and Diagnosis
What is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour composed of fatty tissue that forms just beneath the skin. These soft, movable lumps are generally slow-growing and painless, making them a common and typically non-threatening condition. Lipomas can appear anywhere on the body where fat cells are present, including the neck, shoulders, back, arms, thighs, and forehead. While they are usually harmless, some patients opt for removal due to discomfort or cosmetic reasons.
Where Can Lipomas Appear?
Lipomas can develop on various parts of the body, including the neck, shoulders, back, arms, thighs, and forehead. Although less common, they can also occur in deeper tissues and internal organs.
Symptoms of Lipomas
- Lipomas feel soft and doughy to the touch. They move easily under the skin when pressed.
- Typically, lipomas range from 1 to 3 centimetres in diameter, but they can grow larger over time, sometimes exceeding 10 centimetres.
- Most lipomas are painless, though some can cause discomfort if they press against nerves or other structures. Occasionally, they may become painful if they contain many blood vessels or if they grow in an area that experiences frequent friction or pressure.
- Lipomas grow slowly over months or years. Depending on their location, they might interfere with movement or cause noticeable bulges under the skin, leading to cosmetic concerns.
Causes of Lipomas
The exact cause of lipomas is unknown, but several factors may contribute to their development:
- Lipomas often run in families, suggesting a genetic link.
- Trauma or injury to an area might trigger the growth of a lipoma.
- Middle-aged adults are more likely to develop lipomas, and they are slightly more common in men than in women.
Diagnosis of Lipomas
Diagnosing a lipoma typically involves a physical examination by a healthcare professional. During the examination, the doctor will assess the lump’s texture, mobility, and size. To confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions, several tests may be conducted:
- Ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans can help determine the lipoma’s exact size and depth and differentiate it from other types of growths.
- In some cases, a biopsy (removing a small tissue sample from the lump) may be performed. The sample is then examined under a microscope to confirm it is a lipoma and not a malignant tumour.
- Advanced imaging techniques may be used for a more detailed examination, especially if the lipoma is deep-seated or in a sensitive area.
