Do Stomach Issues Cause Lipomas? the Connection - Surgery

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Stomach pain can lead to the development of sebaceous cysts?


Hello, Dr.
Hsu: I apologize for my somewhat strange question.
Two years ago, I had two lipomas under my right armpit.
I went to a hospital for surgery, and the doctor said that one of them had disappeared, so they only removed one.
For a while, there was no recurrence.
However, since the end of last year, every time I experience stomach discomfort (such as gastric spasms or a stomach virus), the lipoma reappears (and it only happens when I have stomach issues).
So, could this really be related to my stomach? Thank you!

An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/19

Dr. Xu Kaixi reply Surgery


I apologize for the delayed response.
The likelihood of a correlation between the lipoma under your right armpit and your stomach discomfort is extremely low; these are two unrelated issues.
To clarify the matter, I recommend that you visit a surgical outpatient clinic for further examination.

Reply Date: 2016/03/19

More Info


The connection between stomach issues and the development of lipomas, or fatty tumors, is not well-established in medical literature. Lipomas are benign tumors composed of adipose (fat) tissue and are generally considered to arise from genetic predispositions rather than being directly linked to gastrointestinal conditions. However, your observation that the appearance of lipomas coincides with episodes of gastrointestinal discomfort raises an interesting question about potential underlying mechanisms.

Firstly, it is essential to clarify that lipomas are typically not caused by gastrointestinal issues such as gastritis, ulcers, or functional gastrointestinal disorders. They are more commonly associated with genetic factors, and their development can be influenced by factors such as age, body weight, and family history. In some cases, certain conditions like familial multiple lipomatosis can lead to the development of multiple lipomas, but these are not directly related to stomach health.

That said, there are a few indirect connections worth considering. Stress and anxiety, which can accompany gastrointestinal issues, may influence the body in various ways, including hormonal changes that could potentially affect fat metabolism. Additionally, inflammation in the body, which can occur during gastrointestinal distress, might play a role in the development of various types of tumors, although this is more speculative and not directly linked to lipomas.

Your experience of having lipomas appear or reappear during episodes of stomach discomfort could also be coincidental. The body’s response to stress or discomfort can manifest in various ways, and it is possible that the timing of your gastrointestinal issues aligns with the appearance of lipomas without a direct causal relationship.

If you are concerned about the recurrence of lipomas or their association with gastrointestinal symptoms, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your medical history, perform necessary examinations, and possibly refer you to a specialist if needed. Keeping a log of your symptoms, including the timing of gastrointestinal issues and the appearance of lipomas, may provide useful information for your healthcare provider.

In summary, while there is no direct evidence linking stomach issues to the formation of lipomas, your observations warrant further discussion with a medical professional. Understanding the nature of your gastrointestinal symptoms and their potential impact on your overall health is essential. Regular follow-ups and monitoring of both your gastrointestinal health and any skin lesions will help ensure that any changes are appropriately addressed.

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