Abdominal Lipomas: What They Are and When You Should Have Them Checked

Lipomas are benign tumors made up of fat cells. Although they are most commonly found beneath the skin or in subcutaneous tissue, they can also develop inside the abdomen, including in less expected areas such as the intestine. And while the word "tumor" may sound alarming, in most cases these growths do not pose a serious health risk.

In this article, we explain what abdominal lipomas are, where they can develop, and when it is important to seek medical evaluation.

What Is a Lipoma and Why Does It Develop?

A lipoma is a collection of fat cells surrounded by a thin capsule that forms a soft lump beneath the skin or in deeper tissues of the body. In general, lipomas:

• Are noncancerous.

• Grow slowly.

• Usually do not cause pain, unless their size or location puts pressure on nearby structures.

The exact cause of lipomas is not fully understood, but genetics may play a role. They can occur more frequently in people with a family history of lipomas.

Abdominal Lipomas: Beyond What You Can See

Although the most familiar lipomas are those that can be felt beneath the skin, they can also develop inside the abdomen, where they may be less noticeable. Examples include:

• Mesenteric lipoma: Develops in the mesentery, the tissue that supports and connects the intestines within the abdomen. These lipomas may grow without causing symptoms, although larger ones can sometimes cause discomfort or other complications.

• Intestinal or submucosal lipoma: Develops within the wall of the intestine. In some cases, it can cause symptoms such as abdominal pain, bleeding, or changes in bowel habits.

These types of lipomas are often discovered incidentally during imaging studies or examinations performed for other reasons because they do not always cause noticeable symptoms.

Are There Other Types of Abdominal Lipomas?

Yes. Although less common, other types include:

• Retroperitoneal lipomas, which develop in deeper areas of the abdomen.

• Intestinal lipomatosis, which involves the presence of multiple lipomas along the gastrointestinal tract.

These conditions can be more complex and require a thorough medical evaluation, particularly when they are associated with discomfort, intestinal obstruction, or bleeding.

When Should You See a Specialist?

Most lipomas are harmless, but certain signs should be evaluated by a healthcare professional:

• Rapid growth or changes in shape.

• Pain or tenderness in the lump or abdomen.

• Persistent digestive symptoms, such as abdominal pain, changes in bowel habits, or bleeding.

A physician may recommend imaging or diagnostic tests such as an ultrasound, computed tomography (CT) scan, or endoscopy to determine the location, size, and characteristics of the growth.

Is Surgery Required to Treat a Lipoma?

Not all lipomas require treatment. However, if a lipoma causes symptoms, grows significantly, or interferes with the function of nearby organs or structures, surgical removal may be considered.

In many cases, removal can be performed successfully with a good prognosis. The appropriate treatment will always depend on the lipoma's size and location, as well as the patient's symptoms and individual circumstances.

Conclusion: It Is Better to Get It Checked Than to Ignore It

Although most lipomas are benign and do not require treatment, it is important not to ignore changes in your body, especially when they are accompanied by other symptoms. If you have any concerns, consulting a specialist can help determine the cause and rule out more serious conditions.

At Revenant Clinic, our digestive health and abdominal surgery specialists can help evaluate abdominal lumps, discomfort, and other related symptoms. Schedule an appointment and receive professional, compassionate medical care.