Lipoma vs Liposarcoma: What You Need to Know
- Zelovie Digital
- Oct 15
- 2 min read
When people notice a lump under their skin, the first thought is often cancer. In reality, the
majority of fatty growths are harmless. Still, it’s essential to understand the difference between a lipoma (benign) and a liposarcoma (malignant), since they can appear similar at first glance.
What is a Lipoma?
A lipoma is a benign tumour, which means it is non-cancerous, does not spread, and is
generally harmless. These growths are composed of fat cells and typically sit just beneath the skin, between the skin and the muscle layer.
Characteristics of a Lipoma:
Soft and movable when touched
Slow-growing and usually small
Painless in most cases
Location:
Commonly found on the back, shoulders, arms, thighs, or neck
Because they are painless and grow slowly, many people live with lipomas for years without
realizing it.
The exact cause of lipomas is still unknown, but research suggests:
They can run in families (genetic link)
They are most common in people aged 40–60
They may sometimes develop after an injury
Diagnosis:
A lipoma is typically diagnosed through a physical examination, but imaging studies, such as
ultrasound, an MRI or CT scan, can confirm the diagnosis if necessary.
Treatment:
Most lipomas do not require treatment unless they:
• Become painful
• Press on nearby nerves
• Continue to grow and cause discomfort
• Are in a visible area, and the patient wants them removed for cosmetic reasons
In such cases, minor surgical removal is a straightforward option.
What is a Liposarcoma?
A liposarcoma is a malignant tumour, meaning cancerous. While rare (1% of lipomas tend to be liposarcomas), it is essential to recognise the difference because liposarcomas tend to grow aggressively and can metastasise to other areas of the body.
Characteristics of a Liposarcoma:
• Rapid growth (much faster than lipomas)
• Firm and fixed in place (not easily movable under the skin)
• Often painful or tender
• May press on nerves, causing numbness or tingling
• Can spread deeper into muscles, organs, or even the lungs and liver
Diagnosis:
Unlike lipomas, liposarcomas are more difficult to confirm with a needle biopsy, because small samples may not be representative. Usually, the doctor will recommend a surgical biopsy or removal of a larger tissue sample for accurate diagnosis. Imaging tests, such as MRI, CT, or PET scans, are also used to assess the extent to which the tumour has spread.
When to See a Doctor
You should seek medical attention if a lump:
• Grows quickly
• Becomes painful
• Feels firm or fixed in place
• Appears deep within the body rather than just under the skin
• Causes numbness, tingling, or functional problems
Final Thoughts
While most fatty lumps are harmless lipomas, it’s essential not to ignore a lump that changes
quickly, causes pain, or feels different from the typical soft and mobile lipoma.
Only a medical professional can make the distinction between a lipoma and a liposarcoma, so if you’re unsure, it’s always best to seek medical evaluation. Early diagnosis can give peace of mind, and in the rare case of liposarcoma, can be life-saving.
Remember: Most lumps are lipomas (harmless), but any fast-growing or painful lump
should be checked by a doctor.
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