Angiolipoma

by Bibianna Purgina, MD FRCPC
July 22, 2024

Background:

An angiolipoma is a benign (non-cancerous) tumour made up of fat and small blood vessels. Most angiolipomas occur just under our skin, where they feel like a soft lump.

What are the symptoms of angiolipoma?

The symptoms of an angiolipoma can vary depending on its size and location, but common symptoms include:

  • Palpable lump: Angiolipomas are small, soft, movable lumps under the skin. They are usually found on the forearms but can also occur on other parts of the body, such as the trunk or neck.
  • Pain or tenderness: Unlike regular lipomas, angiolipomas often cause pain or tenderness, especially when pressed. This pain is due to the blood vessels within the tumour.
  • Growth over time: Angiolipomas can slowly increase in size over time, although they usually remain small, typically less than 5 cm in diameter.
  • Multiple lesions: In some cases, individuals may have multiple angiolipomas, which is more common in younger adults.
  • Erythema: Occasionally, the overlying skin may show redness due to the vascular nature of the tumour.

What causes angiolipoma?

At present, doctors do not know what causes a person to develop an angiolipoma.

Can angiolipoma turn into cancer?

No, angiolipoma will not turn into a cancer over time. However, it is not uncommon for a person to develop more than one angiolipoma.

How is this diagnosis made?

The first diagnosis of a lipoma may be made after a small tissue sample is removed in a procedure called a biopsy. Surgery can then be performed to remove the entire tumour.

Microscopic features of this tumour

Under the microscope, an angiolipoma comprises fat cells called adipocytes. Small blood vessels, some of which contain blood clots, are also found throughout the tumour. A thin layer of tissue surrounds most lipomas called a capsule, which separates the tumour from the surrounding tissues. The capsule also makes these tumours relatively easy for your surgeon to remove.

This pictures shows an angiolipoma examined under the microscope. The tumour is made up of large clear fat cells and small blood vessels.
This picture shows an angiolipoma examined under the microscope. The tumour comprises large clear fat cells and small blood vessels.

About this article

Doctors wrote this article to help you read and understand your pathology report. If you have additional questions, contact us.

Other helpful resources

Atlas of Pathology
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