Identifying Lipomas

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - Every now and then a patient comes into the office with a bump below the skin that concerns them. In many cases it is a lipoma.

A lipoma is a lump or mass that is made up of fat cells. They are very common, benign and most often develop just under the skin. Lipomas are most commonly in the back, neck, shoulders, or arms. Most lipomas do not require treatment. Generally, they are only removed if they are painful or grow too quickly.

But before you pass on any lump as a lipoma, you should have it checked out by your physician. Lumps and bumps can have other more serious causes.

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor