LIPOMAS

General Information

DEFINITION--Benign tumors of fat cells.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--Trunk; neck; back; upper thighs; arms.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Both sexes of persons from puberty to old age.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS--

Nodules that grow under the skin (subcutaneous) with the following characteristics:

• Nodules are dome-shaped and about 2cm to 10cm in diameter. Some grow larger.
• Nodules feel "doughy," smooth and easily movable.
• Only one or many lipomas may occur at one time.
• Skin over the nodule is normal in appearance.
• The nodules usually cause no symptoms such as itching or pain.

CAUSES--Unknown, but the tendency is probably inherited. Minor injury may trigger growth.

RISK INCREASES WITH--Family history of lipomas.

HOW TO PREVENT--Cannot be prevented at present. If you are obese, you can reduce the size of lipomas by losing weight.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• No treatment is needed for lesions that are stable in size.
• Surgical removal (if recommended) is usually done in a doctor's office. Lipomas can be surgically excised or removed by liposuction. (See Lipoma Removal in Surgery section.)

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS--Large lipomas may interfere with muscle function.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--These tumors are benign and require no treatment, but they may be removed if they are unsightly or interfere with muscle function.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES-- After surgical removal:

• Apply rubbing alcohol to the scab twice a day.
• Apply an adhesive bandage to the scab during the day. Leave it uncovered at night.
• Wash the wound as usual. Dry gently and completely after bathing or swimming.
• If the scab cracks or oozes, apply non-prescription antibiotic ointment several times a day.

MEDICATION--Medication usually is not necessary for this disorder.

ACTIVITY--After surgical removal, resume your normal activities gradually. Allow 1 month for complete healing.

DIET--No special diet.

Call Your Doctor If

The following occurs after surgery:

• Fever.
• Bleeding that does not respond to moderate pressure.
• Signs of infection (warmth, swelling or redness) at the surgical site.