Lipoma
These can grow under the skin, as well as internally within the body. Look for a soft, fatty, moveable lump that grows slowly up to a couple of centimetres in size.5
Key characteristics of lipomas:
- Usually harmless.
- They can appear anywhere on the body.
- If these lumps grow, become larger or firmer to touch they should be investigated by a health professional to eliminate the presence of cancerous cells.
Treatment
Lipomas do not tend to require removal as they are often harmless. If you are concerned or have noticed a change in a lump anywhere on your body, you should consult your GP who can help diagnose and provide you with removal options.
Fibroma
This is a benign tumour that can occur within any organ. Rarely do fibromas become cancerous and they may not need to be removed. Surgery is one option for managing them.
Sarcoma
This is a very rare type of cancer that often surrounds body structures and organs. Treatment for your lump will depend on diagnosis, so speak to your GP, who may investigate further with a biopsy or ultrasound.
>Find out more about soft tissue sarcomas
If you are concerned about any lumps on your body then speak with your GP to help diagnosis and get peace of mind. Any lump that is also increasing in size, discomfort or appearance, or has not resolved within 2 weeks, should be reviewed by a GP, where investigations such as biopsies and scans may be recommended.
References
- Swollen glands - NHS
- Epidermal cyst - NIH
- What causes epidermoid and pilar cysts? – Patient Info
- Pilar Cyst - NIH
- Lipoma - NHS