Pleomorphic lipoma: case report and literature review.
BACKGROUND
Pleomorphic lipoma is a rare, benign, pseudosarcomatous, soft tissue neoplasm typically involving the subcutis of the neck and shoulder in middle-aged to elderly men. It is characterized histologically by atypical, multinucleated giant cells and grossly as a well-circumscribed mass. Since this neoplasm can resemble a sarcoma, histopathologic diagnosis is critical in preventing unnecessary surgery.


OBJECTIVE
To describe a case of pleomorphic lipoma in the neck and to review the clinical and histopathologic characteristics of this neoplasm.


METHODS
We present a case report and review of the literature.


RESULTS
Local excision to completely extirpate this neoplasm has proven curative at 10 months of follow-up.


CONCLUSIONS
Pleomorphic lipoma is superficially located and may be encountered in a dermatologic setting. Thus the dermatologist should become familiar with its clinical presentation and microscopic appearance.
Yencha
M W
MW
Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, U.S. Naval Hospital, Pensacola, Florida, USA. mwyencha@psa10.med.navy.mil
Hodge
J J
JJ
D000368:Aged; D006258:Head and Neck Neoplasms / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D006801:Humans; D008067:Lipoma / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy; D008297:Male