Publication:

Lipoma: neoplasm beyond boundaries

Lipoma is one of the commonest mesenchymal tumours arising from fat cells of the adult type. It is benign in nature in majority of cases. However, conversion to liposarcoma is described especially in lipomas situated in the retroperitoneum and thigh. Lipomas may be associated with variety of familial syndromes. In such situations they are mostly multiple. Typical physical signs of lobulated nature, slipping sign and pseudo-fluctuation are diagnostic of benign lipomas. MRI is essential to confirm the exact location, extent and infiltration of the surrounding tissues especially when malignant change is suspected. FNAC helps in establishing the diagnosis. Meticulous complete excision is the mainstay of treatment taking utmost care to avoid breach of capsule. Recurrence rate is extremely low.