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Lipomas are benign (noncancerous) fatty tumors that form under the surface of the skin. Although typically a cosmetic issue, they can increase in size and may cause discomfort, pain, or restricted movement.

Infiltrative lipomas are a different type of benign tumor. Unlike regular lipomas which are deposits of fat that move around under the skin, infiltrative lipomas can connect to muscle, nerves, soft tissue, and joints. They often require surgical removal as they can interfere with movement and cause pain.

Lipomas and infiltrative lipomas are more common in dogs than cats. They are distinct from liposarcoma –a rare type of malignant (cancerous) tumor that can spread throughout the body.

Causes of Lipoma

The exact cause of lipomas is unknown, but they are most commonly seen in overweight and senior pets. Possible underlying causes of lipomas include hormonal imbalances, genetics, and exposure to drugs or other chemical substances. Poor diet is also thought to be a contributing factor.

Symptoms of Lipoma

Lipomas are usually discovered when petting an animal, or during a routine veterinary checkup. They are typically soft, round or oval in shape, well-defined, and movable. Lipomas are often found on the trunk, chest, and neck, although they can be located anywhere on the body.

Diagnosis of Lipoma

Because some types of tumor can be malignant, it’s important for your veterinarian to check each individual fatty tumor on your pet’s body. First, your veterinarian will perform a thorough physical examination of your pet to check for tumors. Further testing may also be required to reach a conclusive diagnosis.

A fine needle aspirate is often used to withdraw a sample of tumor cells which are then sent for laboratory analysis. Other diagnostic tests used to identify lipomas and rule out malignancy include tissue biopsies and radiographs.

Treatment of Lipoma

Most lipomas do not require surgical removal, but your veterinarian may recommend surgery if the tumor causes discomfort or impedes movement. Infiltrative lipomas will usually need to be surgically removed as they invade soft tissues and can cause pain, muscle atrophy, and other health complications.

If your veterinarian recommends non-removal, make sure to monitor your pet and schedule a veterinary checkup if you notice any changes in the shape and size of lipomas. Pets that undergo surgery for lipomas usually recover well. Always follow your veterinarian’s advice, and administer any prescribed medication as instructed. You should also minimize exercise and monitor your pet’s condition while they recover from surgery.

Prevention of Lipoma

There is no known way to prevent lipomas as their cause is not fully understood, but we recommend feeding a balanced and nutritious diet to give your pet the best chance of avoiding them. It’s also important to routinely monitor your pet’s skin for lumps and visit your veterinarian for regular checkups. This will help prevent lipomas from growing too large and causing potential problems.

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