What is a lipoma?

A lipoma is classified as a benign tumor that is composed of mature fat cells. This means it is a non-cancerous growth that arises from adipose (fat) tissue and typically appears as a soft, movable lump under the skin. Lipomas are generally asymptomatic and slow-growing, which distinguishes them from more serious conditions. They can occur anywhere on the body but are most commonly found on the trunk, arms, and thighs.

In contrast, malignant tumors composed of fat cells would indicate the presence of a liposarcoma, which is cancerous, and is therefore distinctly different from a lipoma. Cysts refer to closed sacs that can contain liquid, semisolid, or gas material, which does not align with the definition of a lipoma. Likewise, a skin infection involves the invasion of pathogens and is unrelated to the benign nature of a lipoma. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why a lipoma is accurately described as a benign tumor made up of mature fat cells.