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Gastrointestinal lipoma and malignancies
Journal of Surgical Oncology
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Gastrointestinal lipomas, common in elderly women, are benign fatty growths. While typically non-malignant, coexisting cancers necessitate thorough investigation in elderly patients with colonic lipomas.
Area of Science:
- Gastroenterology
- Surgical Pathology
Background:
- Gastrointestinal lipomas are rare, benign submucosal tumors.
- They are often asymptomatic or present with nonspecific abdominal symptoms.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinicopathological features of gastrointestinal lipomas.
- To investigate the association of lipomas with other gastrointestinal pathologies and malignancies.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 20 gastrointestinal lipomas in 18 patients.
- Analysis of clinical presentation, endoscopic findings, surgical procedures, and histopathological features.
- Correlation with coexisting gastrointestinal malignancies.
Main Results:
- Lipomas were most frequent in elderly European-born women, predominantly in the colon.
- Average size was 2.7 cm; most were submucosal without true encapsulation.
- Microscopic examination revealed associated glandular atrophy and inflammation in 50% of cases.
- Coexistent malignancies were found in 39% of patients.
Conclusions:
- Gastrointestinal lipomas may represent a reactive process rather than true neoplasms.
- Thorough screening for malignancies is crucial in elderly patients diagnosed with colonic lipomas.