THOUGHT IT WAS A MUSCLE STRAIN – TURNS OUT TO BE A MASSIVE LIPOMA

Subcutaneous lipomas are benign tumors commonly found in adults and often have a genetic predisposition. They are composed of fat deposits gradually accumulating under the skin, forming round masses of varying sizes — from as small as a pea to as large as a tangerine.

Recently, the General Surgery Department at Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital admitted a 61-year-old female patient, Mrs. D.T., who presented with a large lipoma in her thigh. According to the patient, the tumor had appeared recently and was growing unusually fast, causing pain and interfering with her daily activities. She also reported muscle strain-like pain when working. Upon examination, doctors noted a significantly swollen left thigh, dominated by a large mass.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a giant lipoma measuring approximately 18×10 cm, compressing major blood vessels and nerves in the left thigh. With a clear diagnosis regarding the nature and exact location of the tumor, surgical removal was scheduled for the following day.

The surgical team decided to proceed with complete excision of the lipoma. The procedure lasted 60 minutes and was performed by the General Surgery team led by Dr. Mai Van Dung, MMed, Specialist Level I, and Dr. Nguyen Trung Duong, MMed, Specialist Level I, with support from the Anesthesiology Department. The surgeons skillfully removed the 2-kilogram tumor without damaging the surrounding vessels and nerves. The patient recovered well and was discharged after only 3 days of hospitalization.

Commenting on lipomas, Dr. Mai Van Dung, MMed, Specialist Level I noted:

“Lipomas are quite common, typically appearing on the neck, shoulders, back, and upper limbs. Small lipomas often cause no symptoms, but larger ones can compress nerves, blood vessels, or nearby structures — leading to pain or functional impairments. Lipomas larger than 10 cm, such as in this case, are relatively rare. Early detection is essential to prevent complications and ensure easier surgical management”.

Lipomas usually appear as soft, round, painless lumps beneath the skin. Most patients are unaware of their presence until the mass becomes visible or symptomatic. These tumors may feel rubbery, soft, or firm to the touch, and can often move slightly under the skin.

Although benign, lipomas can run in families. Therefore, individuals — especially those with a family history — are advised to avoid alcohol, reduce intake of fat and sugar, and maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Dr. Dung also highlighted common symptoms to help identify lipomas in the thigh:

• A soft, round, movable lump under the skin around the thigh, usually painless
• Size varies, but thigh lipomas rarely exceed 8 cm in diameter and tend to grow slowly

If you notice any unusual lumps or swelling in any part of your body, especially if accompanied by pain, it is crucial to seek timely medical consultation for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital accepts both public health insurance and private health insurance.

Nam Sai Gon International General Hospital

No. 88, Street No. 8, Trung Son Residential Area, Binh Hung Commune, Ho Chi Minh City.

Hotline: 18006767

info@nih.com.vn

BRC: No. 0312088602, issued on December 14th, 2012 by the Department of Planning and Investment of Ho Chi Minh City. Medical Examination and Treatment License No. 230/BYT-GPHĐ, issued by the Ministry of Health.