From the Research
Surgical excision is the standard treatment for angiolipomas, especially in symptomatic cases, as it involves complete removal of the tumor with minimal complications and low recurrence rates. Angiolipomas are benign soft tissue tumors composed of fat cells and blood vessels, typically appearing as small, firm, painful nodules under the skin, most commonly on the forearms, trunk, and upper arms 1. These growths are usually 1-2 cm in size, can be tender to touch, and may occur as single or multiple lesions.
Key Characteristics of Angiolipomas
- Benign mesenchymal tumors
- Infrequently affect the head and neck region
- Manifest as small, slow-growing masses that are painful or tender to palpation
- Can be diagnosed using ultrasonography, fine needle aspiration biopsy, computed tomography, and magnetic resonance imaging 1
Treatment Options
- Surgical excision is the treatment of choice for both infiltrating and noninfiltrating forms
- Liposuction can be considered in multiple forms
- Radical excision combined with instrumented fixation may be used in the management of thoracic epidural angiolipoma 2
- Active surveillance is the accepted management for small asymptomatic masses, while symptomatic masses and masses greater than 4 cm should be treated 3
Prognosis
- Angiolipomas rarely undergo malignant transformation, making them a benign condition with excellent prognosis after removal
- Complete removal of the tumor is preferred, although incomplete resections may also have favorable outcomes 2
- The prognosis after surgical management is very good, with low recurrence rates and minimal complications 1, 2