What is the ultrasound signature of lipoma?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have had an abdominal ultrasound for a suspected small superficial lipoma. However, the sonographer advised that nothing showed and that the tissue was normal.

I would be grateful if you could review the attached images and give your opinion.

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

I have gone through your ultrasound report (attachments removed to protect the patient's identity).

The epidermis and dermis cannot be differentiated. They appear together as a thin, hyperechoic layer.
The subcutaneous layer appears hypoechoic on ultrasound, with two components: hypoechoic fat interspersed with hyperechoic linear echoes running mostly parallel to the skin, which represent connective tissue septa.
Veins and nerves can be visualized within the subcutaneous layer.
Fascia appears as a linear hyperechoic layer.

Your ultrasound report of soft tissue is within the normal limit.

The report is normal. However, please consult your physician.

I hope I have answered your question.

Let me know if I can assist you further.

Regards.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Lymph nodes and tumors will have significant changes, which are well seen in ultrasound.

Lymph node:

Sonographic features that help to identify abnormal nodes include shape (round), absent hilus, intranodal necrosis, reticulation, calcification, matting, soft-tissue edema, and peripheral vascularity.

Tumor:

Cysts, lumps, and tumors will all appear as darker spots on your ultrasound images compared to the lighter gray and white tissue.

These are the few differences we look at. But many more features are there to evaluate.

So do not worry, be confident, and consult your physician.

I hope this helps.

Thank you and take care.

Regards.