Lipoma (Fatty Tumor)
Description
Benign growth of fat cells. Benign means this is not a serious cancer. Lipomas grow slowly and do not spread (metastasize). They usually occur on the trunk, neck, back, upper thighs, and arms. They affect both sexes, and all ages, but are more common in patients greater than 60.
Symptoms
Painless slow growing swelling just beneath the skin.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be performed. Rarely a biopsy is taken to examine the tissue under a microscope. Masses that begin to grow rapidly may be biopsied to make sure a more serious cancer is not causing the growth.
Treatment
Treatment includes observation. The lipoma may be surgically removed if it starts to grow quickly or for cosmetic reasons.
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