What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Pleomorphic Lipoma
• SCL (Spindle Cell Lipoma)

What is Spindle Cell Lipoma? (Definition/Background Information)

• Spindle Cell Lipoma (SCL) is a benign, subcutaneous tumor of fat (fat cells and spindle cells) that is observed predominantly in middle-aged to elderly men
• They usually do not cause any signs and symptoms and are often painless. Spindle Cell Lipomas are frequently present on the neck and upper back
• There are no identified risk factors for Spindle Cell Lipoma and the cause is presently unknown
• If the tumors are asymptomatic, then no treatment may be necessary. But, if required, a complete surgical excision of the Spindle Cell Lipoma may be performed
• The prognosis is generally excellent, since these tumors are benign

Who gets Spindle Cell Lipoma? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Spindle Cell Lipoma is typically found in men in the 40-50 years age group, or older
• Both males and females are affected, though the incidence of the condition is very high in males (10:1 male-female ratio)
• There is no racial or ethnic preference observed

What are the Risk Factors for Spindle Cell Lipoma? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for Spindle Cell Lipomas are currently unknown, or have not been established

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Spindle Cell Lipoma? (Etiology)

The exact cause of Spindle Cell Lipoma formation is presently unknown.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Spindle Cell Lipoma?

The signs and symptoms of Spindle Cell Lipoma are:

• A number of subcutaneous tumors may be observed at several locations of the body
• Most common location of the tumor is behind the neck, upper back, and shoulder
• The nodules are well-circumscribed and do not cause any pain
• Some tumors may not present any signs other than a mass, and no symptoms

How is Spindle Cell Lipoma Diagnosed?

Spindle Cell Lipoma is diagnosed using the following tools:

• Complete physical examination with comprehensive evaluation of medical history
• Radiographic studies of the affected region
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Spindle Cell Lipoma?

Generally, there are no significant complications due to Spindle Cell Lipoma.

How is Spindle Cell Lipoma Treated?

Treatment measures for Spindle Cell Lipoma include the following:

• If there are no symptoms, then conservative treatment may be employed. However, periodic observation is maintained and if there is any pain, it can be controlled through pain medication
• Surgical excision with removal of the entire tumor is the standard treatment method used. If the lesion is not fully removed, then there are chances of its recurrence
• Post-operative care is important: One must maintain minimum activity levels until the surgical wound heals
• Post-operative follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important, especially to monitor for any recurrences

How can Spindle Cell Lipoma be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a method of preventing Spindle Cell Lipoma.

What is the Prognosis of Spindle Cell Lipoma? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• Spindle Cell Lipomas are generally asymptomatic and these tumors may not require any treatment
• The prognosis is generally excellent when the tumors are small (and few in numbers) and are completely excised

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Spindle Cell Lipoma:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/diseases-conditions/cancer/