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MRI findings in intramuscular lipomas
K Matsumoto1, S Hukuda, M Ishizawa
1Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, Shiga University of Medical Science, Japan.
Skeletal Radiology
|May 8, 1999
Summary
Magnetic resonance (MR) imaging reveals varied intramuscular lipoma findings, from small homogeneous masses to large inhomogeneous lesions with infiltrative margins. Inhomogeneous features and infiltrative margins suggest benign intramuscular lipoma, distinguishing it from malignancy.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Oncology
- Pathology
Background:
- Intramuscular lipomas are benign tumors that can present with diverse imaging characteristics.
- Differentiating benign intramuscular lipomas from malignant liposarcomas on imaging is crucial for appropriate patient management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the spectrum of magnetic resonance (MR) findings associated with intramuscular lipoma.
- To identify imaging features that help distinguish intramuscular lipoma from well-differentiated liposarcoma.
Main Methods:
- A retrospective review of 17 intramuscular lipoma cases evaluated with MR imaging.
- Assessment of lesion size, margin characteristics, homogeneity, nodularity, and presence of intermingled muscle fibers.
- Comparison with three well-differentiated and one dedifferentiated liposarcoma cases.
Main Results:
- Intramuscular lipomas ranged from <3 cm to >10 cm, with 10 being homogeneous and 7 inhomogeneous with intermingled muscle fibers.
- Well-defined margins were seen in 12 cases, while 5 had infiltrative margins.
- 15 lipomas were uninodular, contrasting with multinodular liposarcoma in 3 of 4 malignant cases.
Conclusions:
- MR findings of intramuscular lipoma are variable, including homogeneous or inhomogeneous masses with well-defined or infiltrative margins.
- Infiltrative margins and intermingled muscle fibers are indicative of benign intramuscular lipoma, not malignancy.
- Uninodularity aids in differentiating intramuscular lipoma from well-differentiated liposarcoma.