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

• Fibrofatty Proliferation of Nerve
• Fibrolipomatous Hamartoma
• Fibrolipomatous of Nerve

What is Lipomatosis of Nerve? (Definition/Background Information)

• Lipomatosis of Nerve is an infrequent benign tumor occurring on the surface of a nerve due to the growth of fibrous and fatty tissue. It typically affects the median nerve, followed by the ulnar nerve
• Generally, children and young adults are affected by this condition. The tumor is small-sized and may be removed without any damage to the nerve on which it forms
• Currently, no risk factors or causative factors have been identified for Lipomatosis of Nerve, which is normally asymptomatic. However, it can compress the nerve on which it lies and cause nerve dysfunction
• Complete excision by surgery is curative and the prognosis of Lipomatosis of Nerve is excellent

Who gets Lipomatosis of Nerve? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Lipomatosis of Nerve typically arises between the age ranges of 10-30 years. It is observed in children, teenagers, and young adults
• In some cases, the condition may be present at birth
• It is observed with a higher incidence in males, when compared to females
• Lipomatosis of Nerve is a rare condition with no known geographical, racial, or ethnic preference

What are the Risk Factors for Lipomatosis of Nerve? (Predisposing Factors)

• No risk factors have been identified for Lipomatosis of Nerve

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 Lipomatosis of Nerve? (Etiology)

The exact cause and mechanism of Lipomatosis of Nerve formation is unknown.

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lipomatosis of Nerve?

Lipomatosis of Nerve may be asymptomatic or have mild signs and symptoms. These may include:

• Presence of a benign tumor most commonly on the median nerve (or branches) of the arm; sometimes, the tumor may be found on the ulnar nerve
• One of the fingers may be large (macrodactyly)
• The tumors are usually small and do not grow to large sizes, but the presence of an anomalous growth may be observed

How is Lipomatosis of Nerve Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Lipomatosis of Nerve is made using the following tools:

• Complete physical examination with thorough evaluation of the individual’s medical history
• MRI scan of the affected region
• Nerve conduction studies of the affected nerve
• Tissue biopsy: A tissue biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination, who 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 Lipomatosis of Nerve?

The complications from Lipomatosis of Nerve could include:

• Compression of the underlying nerve, which can affect nerve function
• Damage to the nerve during surgery to remove the tumor
• Recurrence after surgery, if the tumor is incompletely removed

How is Lipomatosis of Nerve Treated?

Treatment measures for Lipomatosis of Nerve may include the following:

• If there are no symptoms, then no treatment may be necessary. Periodic observations can be maintained through regular check-ups
• Surgical excision with removal of the entire tumor can be attempted, if damage to the affected nerve will not occur
• Post-operative care is important: One must maintain minimum activity levels, until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important and encouraged

How can Lipomatosis of Nerve be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a way of preventing Lipomatosis of Nerve.

What is the Prognosis of Lipomatosis of Nerve? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Lipomatosis of Nerve (benign tumor) is excellent, if the tumor can be removed without damaging the underlying nerve
• Asymptomatic tumors may require no treatment; unless they cause discomfort, affect the quality of life, or affect functioning of the underlying nerve

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Lipomatosis of Nerve:

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

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