Giant lipomas of the upper extremity

Abstract

Lipomas are slow-growing soft tissue tumours that rarely reach a size larger than 2 cm. Lesions larger than 5 cm, so-called giant lipomas, can occur anywhere in the body but are seldom found in the upper extremities. The authors present their experiences with eight patients having giant lipomas of the upper extremity. In addition, a review of the literature, and a discussion of the appropriate evaluation and management are included.

Keywords: Giant lipoma; Liposarcoma; Upper extremity.

Figure 1)

Patient 4. Preoperative magnetic resonance imaging showing a large fatty mass volar to the flexor muscles of the left hand

Figure 2)

Patient 4. Intraoperative images of the excision. Final pathology revealed a 14 cm × 12 cm × 2 cm lipoma

Figure 3)

Patient 5. Preoperative T1- and T2-weighted magnetic resonance image showing a mass within the right brachioradialis muscle

Figure 4)

Patient 5. Intraoperative images of the excision. Final pathology revealed a 12 cm × 6 cm × 2 cm well-differentiated liposarcoma

Figure 5)

Patient 7. Preoperative magnetic resonance image showing an 11 cm × 2.9 cm oval-shaped mass located intramuscularly in the left triceps

Figure 6)

Patient 7. Intraoperative images of the excision. Final pathology revealed a 10 cm × 6 cm × 3 cm lipoma