Is Your Abdominal Lump a Lipoma or an Internal Tumor? - Surgery

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A palpable mass in the abdomen could potentially be a lipoma or an internal organ tumor?


Hello Dr.
Ke, I recently noticed that my abdomen feels uneven when pressed, and I can feel several hard lumps.
I have polycystic ovary syndrome, which has contributed to my obesity, and I have a significant amount of fat around my waist that I can grasp.
The protruding lumps are not visible on the surface of my abdomen, but when I press on my abdomen through my clothing, I can clearly feel the unevenness internally.
It feels like there are several protrusions, approximately 1 to 2 cm in size, and they do not move.
Could this possibly be lipomas or visceral tumors? Which department should I visit at the hospital? Thank you.

Hu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/23

Dr. Ke Fangxu reply Surgery


If the size is only 1-2 centimeters, it is more likely to be a lipoma.
If, as you mentioned, you have an obese body type, such a small intra-abdominal tumor would not be palpable on the surface.
If you are still concerned, you can consult a family medicine physician or a general internist for an examination; a simple ultrasound can help differentiate it.

Reply Date: 2016/03/23

More Info


When it comes to abdominal lumps, distinguishing between a lipoma (a benign fatty tumor) and an internal tumor can be challenging, especially without a physical examination and imaging studies. Given your description of multiple firm lumps in your abdomen that are not visible externally but can be palpated, it is important to consider several factors before arriving at a conclusion.

Firstly, a lipoma is typically soft, movable, and painless, and it often feels doughy to the touch. They are usually found just beneath the skin and can vary in size. However, if the lumps you are feeling are firm, immovable, and associated with discomfort or other symptoms, this could raise concerns for other types of tumors, including internal tumors that may arise from organs or tissues within the abdominal cavity.

Your medical history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and obesity may contribute to the development of fatty tissue, which could explain the presence of lipomas. However, it is crucial to differentiate between benign conditions and potential malignancies, especially if there are changes in the lumps or if you experience symptoms such as pain, changes in bowel habits, or unexplained weight loss.

To address your concerns, I recommend the following steps:
1. Consult a Healthcare Provider: It would be best to schedule an appointment with a healthcare professional. Given your symptoms, you may want to see a primary care physician or a gastroenterologist. They can perform a thorough physical examination and assess your medical history.

2. Imaging Studies: Depending on the findings during your examination, your doctor may recommend imaging studies such as an ultrasound or a CT scan. These imaging modalities can help visualize the lumps and provide information about their characteristics, size, and relationship to surrounding structures.

3. Further Evaluation: If imaging suggests that the lumps are concerning, your doctor may recommend a biopsy to obtain a tissue sample for pathological examination. This is crucial for determining the nature of the lumps—whether they are benign or malignant.

4. Monitoring: If the lumps are determined to be benign, your doctor may suggest a watchful waiting approach, with regular follow-ups to monitor any changes in size or symptoms.

5. Lifestyle Considerations: Given your history of obesity, addressing weight management through diet and exercise may also be beneficial. This can help reduce the risk of developing additional lipomas and improve overall health.

In summary, while your lumps may be benign, it is essential to seek medical advice to rule out any serious conditions. Early evaluation and appropriate imaging can provide peace of mind and guide any necessary treatment. Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to health concerns.

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