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What Are The Chances Of Lipomas Developing Into Liposarcoma?

Posted on Mon, 20 Oct 2014

Question: I have several lipomas, 4 or 5 of which have been removed. I was adopted at birth, met my birth mother, who revealed that she had NF1. Is there a link? Separately, am I at greater risk to develop liposarcoma because I have lipomas? I am a 60 year old male, and the lipomas began to appear about 8 or 9 years ago. Thanks.

Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (31 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
No need for surgery

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Welcome to healthcare Magic!

If your biological mother had NF1 then you also must be having neurofibromas rather than lipomas because there is genetic link.
They are harmless swellings and extremely rare to become malignant.
There is no need for surgical removal except for cosmetic issues.

I hope the advise would be informative and useful for you.
Take Care!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Ashwin Bhandari

Follow up: Dr. Ram Choudhary (1 hour later)

Thanks Doctor.
The lipomas I have had removed were biopsied, and I was told that they were lipomas. No one said anything about neurofibromas. Is it possible that biopsies cannot distinguish between the two?
Thanks again. XXXXXXX

Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (24 hours later)

Brief Answer:
biopsy can distinguish

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome back.
If biopsy proven then it's okay they might be lipomas. Biopsy can distinguish the two.
In presence of NF1 likelihood of the same is more so I guessed that way.
I hope the communication will be useful for you.
Take care.

Note: For detailed guidance on genetic screening consult a genetics specialist

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar