Lipomatosis is a condition that causes lipomas to grow in fatty areas of tissue. Generally, a lipoma is a benign growth and does not grow as fast as a cancerous tumor. Most of the lipomas are present on the chest, limbs or shoulders, but there are cases where the lipomas are present internally.
If a lipoma can be felt in the muscle or fat area, it is smooth and oval or round in shape. Although it is connected to the fabric, it can be moved slightly. If the lipoma sits on or near a nerve, the pressure can cause pain.
Virchow's metamorphosis is a type of lipomitosis. In this form, lipomas grow on the heart and salivary glands. If lipomas are found in these areas, surgery may be required to remove the lipomas and prevent life-threatening complications.
Pelvic lipomatosis is a second type. Lipomas grow in the pelvic area. Cystitis glandulitis and adenocarcinoma are two conditions that usually follow the growth of pelvic lipomas. Both of these conditions affect the bladder.
Familial multiple lipomatosis is an inherited condition that often leads to the appearance of lipomas. It can be found in successive generations. Like other forms, lipomas are usually limited to the chest and extremities.
Treatment varies depending on the size and location of the lipomas. When growths occur on or near vital organs, surgical removal is almost always done. For other areas, lipomas are usually only removed if they are abnormally large, painful, or restrict movement.
Lipomas resulting from lipomatosis can be surgically removed. A small incision is made to gain access. The lipoma is then cut from the tissue to which it is connected and the incision is sutured.
Liposuction can be used to remove small lipomas, but it is often not effective for larger ones. Larger lipomas are more difficult to remove. The suction may not get the entire lipoma, which can lead to new growth. Smaller lipomas are not connected to as many tissues as larger ones.
Endoscopic removal is used for the most dangerous lipomas, such as those that grow in the lungs, heart, or other areas where typical surgery is too risky. A special scope is used to navigate to the lipoma. It is then carefully removed with a tool attached to the oscilloscope.
Lipomatosis does not have a cure or a way to prevent the growth of lipomas. While most lipomas grow during adolescence, they can appear at any age from infancy to old age. Lipomas can grow in singles and spread out, or they can grow in groups and in only one area of the body.