Lipoma

A lipoma is a slow-growing, benign (non-cancerous) tumor made of fat cells. These soft, rubbery lumps are typically found just under the skin, most commonly on the arms, torso, and neck. They are usually painless and movable. The exact cause of lipomas is unknown, but they can sometimes be linked to genetics or certain medical conditions. While generally harmless, lipomas can be surgically removed if they cause discomfort, become large, or are cosmetically undesirable. Diagnosis usually involves a physical examination, and sometimes imaging tests like ultrasound or MRI are needed to rule out other conditions.

Lipoma meaning with examples

• During her routine physical, Sarah noticed a small, movable lump on her arm. After an examination and tests, her doctor diagnosed it as a lipoma, confirming it posed no immediate health risks. While it was benign, she opted for removal due to its location.
• Despite its relatively small size, the lipoma on John's back caused him discomfort when lying down. The doctor offered the options of observation or surgical removal. After careful consideration, John opted to have the lipoma removed for comfort and peace of mind.
• The dermatologist explained to Emily that the painless lump on her shoulder was likely a lipoma. Because it was not growing quickly, the doctor advised monitoring it for any changes, but recommended surgery if Emily were worried about its size in the future.
• After noticing the lipoma's increasing size on his torso, David felt a bit of anxiety over the condition and sought immediate medical advice. His doctor, after a careful examination, assured him it was benign and the growth posed no immediate threats.