Lipoma

Lipomas are noncancerous growths that develop under the skin. Lipomas are rarely a cause for concern and don’t require any treatment. 

Lipomas can occur anywhere in the body, including:

• Neck 
• Back 
• Shoulders 
• Arms 
• Thighs  
• Hands 

Lipomas are most commonly found on the upper extremity. Lipomas are usually classified as benign tumours. It’s important to see your GP if you notice any changes to the skin around the lipoma since a lipoma can sometimes look like a liposarcoma, a rare cancer. 

Lipomas are mostly small, with many not reaching a size larger than 2 cm. Some lipomas, however, grow so large and are known as giant lipomas. A large lipoma is mostly larger than 5 cm and can occur anywhere in the lower body.     

Lipomas are usually distinguished by how the tissue appears under the microscope. The various types include: 

• Conventional lipoma: This is the most common type of lipoma.
• Atypical lipoma: These lumps contain many fat cells and deeper fat. 
• Myelolipoma: Unlike conventional lipomas, these produce white blood cells. 
• Hibernoma: This type of lipoma contains brown fat instead of white fat in conventional lipomas. 
• Pleomorphic lipoma: The fat cells in these lipomas vary in size and shape.
• Angiolipoma: This lipoma contains fat cells and many blood cells.