The skin is the largest organ in the body, and therefore, it can also be one of the biggest bearers of bad news. For many reasons, a lump or an abnormal growth on the skin can be alarming. To many people, the first thought that comes to mind is the possibility of a cancerous tumour, which requires prompt evaluation by a medical professional. But fortunately, most lumps and swellings are benign and harmless, and one of the most common causes is lipoma, a fatty lump that develops under the skin. Speaking with the OnlyMyHealth team, Dr Yugandar Reddy, Consultant-Surgical Oncology, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad, shared some characteristics of the condition and also explained how it is different from a malignant tumour.
What Is Lipoma?
“A lipoma is a benign, slow-growing fatty tumour that forms beneath the skin,” described Dr Reddy, adding, “It typically feels soft and moves easily with slight finger pressure.”
According to the doctor, the exact cause of lipomas is not always clear, but they are generally considered to be non-cancerous and arise from an overgrowth of fat cells.
The condition is extremely common and can occur in about one in every thousand people, according to StatsPearls Publishing.
While they can grow in any part of the body, they're more commonly noticed on the:
- Arms or legs
- Back
- Neck
- Shoulders
- Chest and torso
- Forehead
While the definite cause of the condition is not known, there are indications that it may be genetic or may occur if someone in the family has one. Moreover, certain pre-existing conditions, like Dercum’s disease, a rare disorder, Gardner syndrome, and Madelung’s disease, can also cause multiple lipomas.
Difference Between Lipoma And Cancer
Dr Reddy shared that, unlike cancer, lipomas are generally harmless and do not invade surrounding tissues or metastasize to other parts of the body.
“They are usually painless and are more of a cosmetic concern,” he said.
According to him, differentiating between a lipoma and a cancerous lump involves several factors.
While lipomas are usually soft, mobile, and painless, cancerous lumps may be firmer, fixed, and can cause pain.
Additionally, lipomas are generally small, mostly less than 2 inches in diameter, but they can grow, as per the Mayo Clinic.
However, the only way to definitively distinguish between them is through medical evaluation, which may involve imaging studies or a biopsy, Dr Reddy advised.
Also Read: Can Itchy Skin Be A Sign Of Cancer? Here's What Doctor Has To Say
How To Approach Lipoma And Cancer?
“Approaching a lipoma often involves monitoring, especially if it is small and asymptomatic. If removal is desired for cosmetic reasons or due to discomfort, a simple surgical procedure can be performed. Cancerous lumps, on the other hand, require prompt medical attention. Diagnosis often involves imaging, biopsies, and a multidisciplinary approach to determine the most appropriate treatment, which may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, or a combination of these,” Dr Reddy said.
Conclusion
Lipomas are harmless skin growths that are painless and can be easily removed by surgical procedures. Cancer, on the other hand, is a life-threatening disease that requires prompt medical evaluation and management. If you notice a fatty lump on your skin, do not hesitate to get it evaluated by a doctor to rule out any dangers.