A lipoma is a benign growth in the form of a lump of fat that forms under the skin. Lipomas are very common, with about 1 in 1,000 people suffering from one. Although more common in adults, lipomas can also appear in infants and children under 3 years of age. In both women and men. However, lipomas are more common in women.
Lipomas are not dangerous, but parents must remain vigilant. Because in some cases lipomas can enlarge and can interfere with other tissue structures. This can certainly make your little one feel uncomfortable. So, moms and dads need to know what a lipoma is, what causes and what the symptoms of a lipoma are so that they don't neglect their little one's health.
What is Lipoma?
A lipoma is a harmless fatty growth that grows under the skin in the form of a lump. Usually, lipomas are soft and can be moved easily when touched. They are harmless and usually painless. Most often, lipomas appear in the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms and thighs.
Lipomas are benign soft tissue tumors. They grow slowly and are not cancerous. In infants and children, lipomas are rare, but when they do appear, they are usually soft, rubbery and movable under the skin. In general, infant lipomas have the same shape as adult lipomas.
The causes of lipomas are not fully understood. Genetics, age, and injury may contribute to the development of lipomas, but there is no single cause that can explain all cases.
Causes of Lipoma
Lipoma cases in infants are quite rare. According to the Journal of Pediatric Surgery Case Reports, lipomas in infants and toddlers are commonly found in those aged 1-3 years. Although the exact cause of lipomas is unknown, there are several factors that may play a role, such as:
1. Genetics
Genetic factors play an important role in the development of lipomas. If moms or dads have family members who have lipomas, there is a high chance that moms can also develop lipomas. This condition is known as multiple familial lipomatosis.
In this condition, lipomas often appear in several family members and can appear in large numbers. Although the specific genes that cause lipomas have not been fully identified, there is strong evidence that certain genetic mutations can influence the development of this excessive fatty tissue.
2. Age
Age is another factor that contributes to the development of lipomas. Although lipomas can appear at any age, they are more commonly found in adults between the ages of 40 and 60.
The reason why lipomas are more common at this age is not fully understood, but it may be related to changes in metabolism and fat tissue function as we age. At this age, the body may be more prone to the formation of abnormal fat growths.
3. Injury
Although uncommon, there are some cases where lipomas appear after injury to a specific area. Injury or trauma to the soft tissue, such as a bump or blow, can trigger the growth of a lipoma. However, the exact mechanism of how an injury can cause a lipoma remains unclear.
One theory is that the injury may disrupt the fat tissue and cause abnormal proliferation of fat cells, thus forming a lipoma. However, not all injuries to the soft tissue will result in a lipoma, and many lipomas develop without a clear history of injury.
Symptoms of Lipoma in Infants
How to recognize a lipoma in a baby? Lipomas are usually painless, but they can cause discomfort if they press on nerves or develop near a joint. Many people who suffer from lipomas do not feel any symptoms. Here are some symptoms that moms and dads can look out for:
- Soft Lump: Lipomas are usually soft and springy to the touch.
- Easy to Move: This lump can be moved slightly under the skin.
- Slow Growth: Lipomas usually grow very slowly, often taking years to enlarge.
- Small Size: Most lipomas are less than 5 cm in size, but can be larger.
- No Pain: Lipomas are generally painless, unless they press on nearby nerves or blood vessels.
What are the Types of Lipomas?
Lipomas are benign tumors made up of fatty tissue. While lipomas are usually harmless, there are several types of lipomas that can arise based on their location and characteristics. Here are some of the different types of lipomas and a detailed description of each:
1. Conventional (Classic) Lipoma
2. Intramuscular lipoma
3. Angiolipoma
4. Spindle Cell Lipoma
5. Pleomorphic Lipoma
6. Lipoma Fibrolipoma
7. Hibernoma lipoma
8. Lipoblastoma
Lipoma Treatment
The good news is that lipomas are harmless and do not require any specific treatment. However, if the lipoma is causing pain or discomfort, there are several treatment options:
- Surgical Removal: If the lipoma is bothersome, the doctor can remove it through minor surgery.
- Liposuction: This procedure uses a syringe to suction out fat from the lipoma.
- Steroid Injections: These can help shrink the lipoma, but not completely remove it.
Although lipomas are usually harmless, it is a good idea for moms and dads to consult a doctor if the lump feels hard or painful. Lipomas grow quickly and are larger than 5 cm in size. Lipomas are also something to watch out for if they appear in unusual areas or cause functional problems.
So, moms and dads don't need to panic if you find lipoma-like lumps in babies and children. Stay calm and consult a doctor to make sure everything is okay. Hopefully this information is useful. Stay healthy and interrupt
Komen
250