Answer:

Lipomas originate from fatty tissue, growing slowly, feeling soft, painless, and movable when touched. This type of tumor commonly appears on the shoulders, neck, back, or arms, often seen in individuals aged 40-60. It is one of the most common types of soft tissue tumors.

Lipomas can be small, a few millimeters in size, or larger than 10 cm. Those larger than 10 cm are classified as giant lipomas. Most lipomas are benign and located in the subcutaneous tissue; about 1% of cases develop within muscle fibers.

Many factors can cause lipomas, including: genetics, Dercum's disease (a rare disorder causing painful lipoma growth), familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP), Gardner's syndrome, and Madelung's disease (multiple symmetrical lipomas).

Doctor Tan performing surgery for a patient. Illustrative photo: Tam Anh General Hospital

Since most lipomas are benign and cause little pain, many individuals only seek medical attention when the tumor is large, compressing nerves, or affecting blood vessels. Some atypical lipomas exhibit characteristics intermediate between benign and malignant tumors, carrying a risk of recurrence and a high potential for malignant transformation. In such cases, doctors may recommend surgical removal of the tumor and a margin of healthy surrounding tissue, combined with regular MRI scans.

Since your mother has a tumor on her body, she should see a doctor for examination to rule out serious causes like liposarcoma (a rare cancer of fat cells in the arms and legs). The doctor may order ultrasound, MRI, or other diagnostic techniques to determine the tumor's nature, assess its size, depth, vascular proliferation, and nerve compression.

Most small, benign lipomas do not affect daily activities or aesthetics and do not yet require treatment. Patients should not apply leaves, plasters, or use needles to puncture or squeeze the tumor to avoid infection and necrosis.

Master of Science, Doctor, Specialist Level I Huynh Ba Tan

Department of Surgical Oncology

Oncology Center

Tam Anh General Hospital, Ho Chi Minh City