Published in:
Open Access 01-12-2019 | Computed Tomography | Case report
The largest reported intrathoracic lipoma: a case report and current perspectives review
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2019
Login to get accessAbstract
Background
The huge size intrathoracic lipomas are very rare. Few cases have been reported worldwide. To our knowledge, this presented case is one of the few cases reported. Here we report a single case as very huge intrathoracic lipoma compressing the right lung and displacing the diaphragm and liver downward. It has been managed by right posterolateral thoracotomy and complete excision, with excellent outcome.
Case presentation
A 32-year-old male presented with a symptomatic right intrathoracic mass, which was confirmed to be a lipomatous tumor using computed tomography. A penduculated tumor originating from the mediastinal pleura was resected through the conventional right posterior thoracotomy. Pathological examination indicated a diagnosis of fibrolipoma.
Conclusion
The tumor was symptomatic and relatively huge when detected during a medical checkup. This enabled the successful tumor resection via conventional thoracotomy approach. Although intrathoracic lipomas are histologically benign, careful observation and follow-up are crucial due to the possibility of recurrence.