Angiolipoma - Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Introduction

Angiolipoma is a slow-growing, non-cancerous nodule that develops from the blood vessels and fat cells. The tumor usually grows or originates under the skin (subcutaneously). The condition is seen in young adults between 20 and 30. The location or site of the tumor could be one or more. The growth appears as bunches or clusters in one area. The painless growth can be seen anywhere on the body. The common sites are head, neck, trunk, and extremities. Genetic factors cause the formation of defective growth of the vessels and fat cells.

Lipomas and angiolipomas are the same, but the differentiating factor is the presence of fat and blood vessels. The tumor is of small size and exhibits a benign nature. A non-cancerous benign tumor poses no harm to an individual and does not metastasize to other body areas. The other names of angiolipoma are vascular lipoma, lipoma cavernosum, and telangiectatic lipoma. The article discusses angiolipoma, its types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment.

What Are the Types of Angiolipoma?

The types of angiolipoma are as follows:

• Non-Infiltrating Angiolipoma: The growth can be painful and does not invade deeper into the skin.

• Infiltrating Angiolipoma: These tumors are painless and can invade the soft tissues. The common sites are the neck, shoulder, and muscles of the lower extremities. These growths cannot be easily removed because they invade deeper into the skin.

• Gastric Angiolipoma: The growth originates in the stomach. The first case was reported in 2017. The symptoms include deficiency of blood and gastrointestinal bleeding.

• Spinal Angiolipoma: The first case was reported in 2017. The growth occurs in the spine between the upper and lower back lining. The symptoms include weakness and a tingling sensation. An individual may have difficulty in maintaining balance.

What Are the Causes of Angiolipoma?

Angiolipoma runs in families. The parent can transfer the condition to their offspring. This is known as multiple familial angiolipomatosis. The condition is common in people aged between 20 and 30. It rarely appears in children and older adults. The percentage of men with the disease is more as compared to women. Genetic mutations and alterations in the somatic cells can cause the formation of defective blood vessels and fat cells. This can lead to the development of angiolipoma.

Certain medical conditions also cause the formation of angiolipoma. Medications also cause multiple angiolipomas. These medicines include Indinavir sulfate, which is a protease inhibitor used to treat human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), and corticosteroids if an individual is taking them for a long time. Some females during pregnancy and menopause also suffer from the condition due to hormonal imbalance. Previous trauma and injury can also lead to the development of angiolipoma.

What Are the Signs and Symptoms of Angiolipoma?

The signs and symptoms of angiolipoma are as follows:

• Appearance: The non-cancerous growth appears as a painless, moving, soft nodule behind the skin (subcutaneously). The tumor size is very small and measures about a few inches in diameter.

• Skin Color or Texture: The tumor or growth behind the skin shows noticeable skin changes. The lump is visible to the naked eye. The lump can be palpable, and an individual may notice swelling. The color of the overlying skin can be normal or slightly bluish. The color changes may be due to a large number of blood vessels.

• Discomfort: The non-cancerous growth is painless and may cause discomfort to the individual. Some individuals may feel pain due to the pressure caused by the abnormal blood vessels.

• Functional Impairment: If the angiolipoma involves joints or muscles, then it can inhibit the mobility of the extremities or limit the range of motion. The other symptoms include weakness.

How Is Angiolipoma Diagnosed?

The healthcare provider may diagnose angiolipoma by a physical examination and diagnostic tests. The following diagnostic tests can identify the condition.

• Clinical Evaluation: The healthcare provider may physically examine a lump. The doctor may ask the patient about any previous medical conditions. The doctor may also check for symptoms, including painless, tender, and palpable lump. The naked eye and movable will quickly see the lump by pressing it with fingers.

• Biopsy: The doctor may prescribe a biopsy to confirm the condition. A tissue sample of the lump is extracted and forwarded to a laboratory for subsequent analysis. Under a microscope, the doctor may check for the blood vessels or adipose tissue to confirm the condition. This also helps the doctor to differentiate between cancerous and non-cancerous tumors.

• Imaging Studies: To evaluate the dimensions and placement of the non-cancerous growth, the doctor may suggest employing imaging modalities like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan.

How Is Angiolipoma Treated?

Angiolipomas are non-cancerous, so does not cause any harm to an individual. If the growth cause pain and discomfort, an individual should consult a doctor for further evaluation and treatment. The treatment options are as follows:

• Extirpation (Surgery): The surgeon may remove the lump surgically, which causes pain and discomfort. Extirpation is done under a local anesthetic agent to numb the affected area.

• Liposuction: The procedure is done to remove the tumor. Under the administration of local anesthesia, a small incision is made to perform the procedure. The surgeon may extract fat through this open incision, resulting in a minor scar remaining after the completion of the entire process.

• Laser Therapy: The doctor may use high-intensity light to damage the blood vessels within the tumor.

• Medications: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be utilized to treat the condition to alleviate pain.

How Is Angiolipoma Prevented?

The preventive measures for angiolipoma are as follows:

• Adopt a healthy lifestyle.

• Avoid repeated injuries.

• Regular check-ups.

• Skin awareness.

Conclusion

Angiolipomas are slow-growing and non-cancerous tumors present subcutaneously (behind the skin). Some people do not feel any pain, so no need for treatment. If individuals experience discomfort or pain, it is advisable to seek consultation with a doctor through in-person visits or online platforms. The treatment options are surgical excision, laser therapy, liposuction, and medications. Avoiding repeated injuries and regular health check-ups can prevent the development of the condition.