Abstract
Background: Lipomas are the most common soft-tissue tumors and may appear at any site. The usual presentation is as a solitary, slow-growing and painless subcutaneous tumor. Deep-seated, intra- and extramuscular lipomas are less common and are larger than subcutaneous lipomas. Our objectives were to study the clinical and radiological characteristics and treatment of Tunisian Deep-seated lipomas of the upper extremity patients and review the literature.
Methods: A retrospective study of all patients with deep-seated lipomas of the upper extremity, treated surgically between 1990 and 2011, was carried out. Clinical and radiological characteristics, treatment, and evolution profile of these patients were also evaluated. Patients were followed for 5 years.
Results: Twenty three patients were identified. There were 17 women and 6 men. The mean age of patients was 45 years (range 25 to 80 years). Eight of these lipomas were in the arm, eight in the shoulder, three in the hand, three in the forearm and one in the elbow. Standard radiography, ultrasonography, Computer Tomography (CT) or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) suggested the lipomatous nature and benign characteristics of these deep lipomas. Lipoma marginal excision was performed and histopathological examination demonstrated features of benignity. There were two intramuscular lipomas, two angiolipomas and nineteen lipomas. There was no recurrence after the surgery.
Conclusion: All deep-seated lipomas are found to have infiltrative property, but variations may arise concerning their growing patterns and direction. It may wrap around nerves thus a careful dissection is needed in order to avoid severe damage.
Citation
Miniaoui I, Alaya Z, Jedidi M, Hassini L, Braiki M, Bouajina E, et al. Deep-Seated Lipomas of the Upper Extremity in Tunisia - A Case Series and Literature Review. SM J Arthritis Res. 2017; 1(1): 1002.