LIPOMAS |
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DESCRIPTIONLipomas are benign tumors of fat cells. The trunk, neck, back, upper thighs, and arms are involved. These are common in both sexes from puberty to old age.
Appropriate health care includes:
Doctor's treatment.
Surgery to remove the lipoma (sometimes).
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
Nodules under the skin 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.
CAUSES
Unknown, but the tendency is probably inherited. Minor injury may trigger growth.
RISK FACTORS
Family history of lipomas.
PREVENTING COMPLICATIONS OR RECURRENCECannot be prevented at present. If your child is obese, losing weight helps reduce the size of lipomas.
BASIC INFORMATION
MEDICAL TESTS
Your own observation of symptoms.
Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONSLarge lipomas may interfere with muscle function.
PROBABLE OUTCOME
These tumors are benign in children (but may be malignant in adults) and require no treatment, but they may be removed if they are unsightly or interfere with your child's muscle function. Surgical removal is usually done in a doctor's office.
TREATMENT
HOME CAREAfter surgical removal of your child's lipoma:
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 the child bathes or swims.
If the scab cracks or oozes, apply non-prescription antibiotic ointment several times a day.
Return to your doctor for removal of the child's sutures in 5 to 10 days.
MEDICATION
Medication usually is not necessary for this disorder.
See Medications section for information regarding medicines your doctor may prescribe.
ACTIVITY
After surgical removal, your child can resume normal activities gradually. Allow 1 month for complete healing.
DIET & FLUIDS
No special diet.
OK TO GO TO SCHOOL?When appetite returns and alertness, strength, and feeling of well-being will allow.
CALL YOUR DOCTOR IF
The following occurs after your child's surgery:
Fever.
Bleeding that does not respond to moderate pressure.
Signs of infection (warmth, swelling, or redness) at the surgical site.
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