Lipoma (patient information): Difference between revisions
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==Who is at risk for lipoma?== | ==Who is at risk for lipoma?== | ||
The exact cause of lipomas isn't clear. Studies suggest the following factors may involve in the development of lipoma. | |||
:*Injury: Sometimes lipomas are detected after an injury. Some doctors report minor injuries may be a trigger of the growth of a lipoma. | |||
:*Genetic factor: Because lipomas also tend to run in families, genetic factors likely play a role in their development. | |||
==How to know you have lipoma?== | ==How to know you have lipoma?== |
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What is lipoma?
Lipomas are benign, slow-growing tumors that come from fat cells and grow under the skin. They are usually soft, round, moveable and flattened lumps. Lipomas can occur at any age, but are most common in middle age from 40 to 60 years. For being benign and harmless, the treatment of lipoma generally isn't necessary. But if the lipoma is in a bothersome location, is painful or is growing, you should seek to see your doctor to remove it away.
How do I know if I have lipoma and what are the symptoms of lipoma?
Usually a lipoma has been growing for years before you notice it. And it is common to have more than one. If you notice a lump or swelling anywhere on your body, you should have it checked by your family doctor. The usual symptoms of lipoma are the following:
- Location: The lumps of lipomas is often located under the skin. They often occur in the neck, shoulders, back, arms and thighs.
- Feel: A lipoma feels soft and doughy, and moves easily with slight finger pressure. These are important characteristics different from lumps of cancer.
- Size: Most lipomas are small, usually less than 2 inches or 5 centimeters in diameter. When they grow large, the size can reach more than 4 inches or 10 centimeters.
- Pain: When lipomas grow and press on nearby nerves or they contain many blood vessels, they may be painful.
Who is at risk for lipoma?
The exact cause of lipomas isn't clear. Studies suggest the following factors may involve in the development of lipoma.
- Injury: Sometimes lipomas are detected after an injury. Some doctors report minor injuries may be a trigger of the growth of a lipoma.
- Genetic factor: Because lipomas also tend to run in families, genetic factors likely play a role in their development.
How to know you have lipoma?
When to seek urgent medical care?
Treatment options
Diseases with similar symptoms
Where to find medical care for lipoma?
Directions to Hospitals Treating lipoma
Prevention of lipoma
What to expect (Outook/Prognosis)?
Copyleft Sources
http://familydoctor.org/online/famdocen/home/articles/763.html
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/lipoma/ds00634