Lipoma pathology

Lipomas are common, usually asymptomatic tumors composed of mature adipose tissue. They have a predilection For him subcutaneous tissue of the trunk and extremities, but have been described in a wide range of anatomical locations. They occur in multiplicity in several different clinical syndromes.

Histology lipoma

Sections show mature adipose tissue (figures 1-3). Fat contains few small capillaries into fine fibrous strands. A thin fibrous capsule is often seen.

Fat necrosis and another inflammatory Changes can be seen when lipomas are traumatized.

Special studies for lipoma.

Cytogenetics Abnormalities can be identified in about half of lipomas but are not usually necessary for diagnostic purposes. Characteristic rearrangements involve chromosomes 12, 6 and 13.

Differential diagnosis lipoma

Normal Fat: Distinguishing from normal fat can sometimes be difficult. Circumscription and encapsulation of the lobules favor a lipoma. Medical history can be essential, especially when it comes to emulsified fat samples (lipomas liposuction samples or weight loss procedures).

Well-differentiated Liposarcoma: Some well-differentiated areas of liposarcoma can be extremely soft and mimic a lipoma. Liberal sampling and histologic examination of fatty tumors is recommended to look for atypical zones