| Theme |
Diagnosis and Treatment of Lower Gastrointestinal Tract Submucosal Tumors |
| Title |
Diagnosis and Treatment of Large Intestine Lipomas |
| Author |
Seiji Shimizu |
Division of Gastroenterology, Osaka Railway Hospital |
| Author |
Yukiko Kawaura |
Division of Gastroenterology, Osaka Railway Hospital |
| Author |
Ryuki Minami |
Division of Gastroenterology, Osaka Railway Hospital |
| Author |
Sayaka Miyake |
Division of Gastroenterology, Osaka Railway Hospital |
| Author |
Chihiro Yokomizo |
Division of Gastroenterology, Osaka Railway Hospital |
| Author |
Takahiro Mori |
Division of Gastroenterology, Osaka Railway Hospital |
| [ Summary ] |
Lipomas are benign tumors due to the proliferation of adipocytes. These are the most common benign nonepithelial tumors in the large intestine. Lesions usually develop from the submucosal layer, and form submucosal tumors with smooth surfaces. The most common site of development is the right side of the colon. Endoscopic diagnosis is easy based on the yellow color and soft consistency observed, in contrast, the diagnosis of large lesions with ulceration is difficult. For such cases a demonstration of low density compatible with fat with CT imaging, contributes to a diagnosis of lipoma. Small lesions are asymptomatic. However, large lesions tend to cause intussusception. Generally, therapeutic intervention is necessary for lesions greater than 3 cm in diameter. Although endoscopic resection is recommended as a therapeutic measure, careful manipulation is required to prevent colonic perforation. There have been some reports suggesting an association between lipomas and epithelial tumors, however, the relationship is unclear. |