angiolipoma

What is an Angiolipoma?

An angiolipoma is a rare type of lipoma, which is a growth made up of fat and blood vessels that develops under the skin [1]. It is estimated that between 5-17% of lipomas are angiolipomas [2].

Characteristics

Angiolipomas are benign soft tissue tumors consisting of mature fat and clusters of thin-walled vessels, often containing intraluminal fibrin thrombi [3]. They can occur anywhere in the body but are commonly found on the subcutaneous tissues of the trunk and extremities [4].

Key Features

• Composed of mature adipose tissue and branching capillary-sized vessels
• Thin-walled vessels often contain bright pink fibrin thrombi
• Can be painful, especially during the initial growth phase [6]
• Often occur in multiplicity and can be found on the upper limbs [11]

Histological Description

Angiolipomas are characterized by non-septate fat with peripheral congeries of small capillaries [3]. They can be distinguished histologically from other types of lipomas by the presence of vessels, particularly if thrombosed, within a proliferation of mature fat cells [12].

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Common Signs and Symptoms of Angiolipoma

Angiolipomas are typically characterized by several distinct signs and symptoms, which can vary depending on the size and location of the tumor.

• Painful Subcutaneous Nodules: Angiolipomas often manifest as multiple (solitary in only one-third of patients), painful subcutaneous nodules [3]. These nodules are usually soft and doughy to the touch, with a characteristic spongy or rubbery texture [9].
• Location: Angiolipomas commonly occur on the neck, shoulders, back, abdomen, arms, and thighs [5]. They can also be found in other areas of the body.
• Size: More than 90% of cutaneous angiolipomas are 2 cm or larger [6].
• Tenderness or Pain: Angiolipomas can be tender or painful, especially when compressed [6]. This pain is often described as a dull ache or tenderness in the affected area.
• Soft and Doughy Texture: The tumor itself has a characteristic soft and doughy texture, which can be palpable (can be felt) under the skin.

Other Possible Symptoms

In some cases, angiolipomas may not cause any symptoms at all. However, if they do occur, other possible symptoms include:

• Palpable Lump: A small, soft, movable lump under the skin [11].
• No Symptoms: In many cases, angiolipomas are asymptomatic and do not cause any noticeable symptoms.

References

[3] - Angiolipoma typically manifests as multiple (solitary in only one-third of patients), painful subcutaneous nodules. [5] - Locations where angiolipomas commonly occur. [6] - More than 90% of cutaneous angiolipomas are 2 cm or larger, and they can be tender or painful when compressed. [9] - Angiolipomas have a characteristic spongy or rubbery texture. [11] - A small, soft, movable lump under the skin is another possible symptom.

Diagnostic Tests for Angiolipoma

Angiolipoma, a rare type of lipoma, can be diagnosed through various tests and examinations. Here are some of the diagnostic tests that may be used to confirm a diagnosis:

• Imaging tests: These include CT scans, MRI scans,

Differential Diagnosis of Angiolipoma

Angiolipoma, a benign soft tissue tumor, can be challenging to diagnose in some cases. The differential diagnosis for angiolipoma includes several conditions that may present with similar characteristics.

• Lipoma: A well-circumscribed, often fatty tumor that lacks vascular structures [1]. Lipomas are typically easier to distinguish from angiolipoma due to their lack of vascular components.
• Atypical lipomatous tumor (ALT): A rare and aggressive form of lipoma that can be difficult to differentiate from angiolipoma, especially in small core biopsies [1].
• **Capillary