Lipoma

Definition

A benign tumour composed of mature adipocytes.

Epidemiology

Occur over a wide age range, most commonly 40-60 years.

Clinical features

Histopathology

Composed of lobules of mature adipocytes, with a slightly greater variation in size and shape than non-neoplastic fat.

Variants:

Immunohistochemistry

 

Ultrastructure

A large single lipid droplet compresses a peripheral nucleus. There are pinocytotic vesicles and external laminae surround cells.

Differential diagnosis

Management

Prognosis

Intramuscular lipomas have a higher recurrence rate.

Reference

World Health Organization Classification of Tumours, Tumours of Soft Tissues and Bone, IARC Press 2002.

1Nwaorgu OGB et al. Pharyngeal lipoma with cartilaginous metaplasia (chondrolipoma): a case repot and literature review. J Laryngology and Otogology 1997;111:656-658.

 

This page last revised 25.6.2004.

©SMUHT/PW Bishop