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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.

Lipoma pathology

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Figure 1

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Figure 2

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figure 3

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