A Common Benign Growth: Understanding Lipomas Through a 28-Year-Old Patient Case | Village Dermatology Katy & Houston, TX
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, Texas, we frequently evaluate patients for new skin or soft-tissue growths. Many of these lesions are completely benign, but determining that with certainty requires careful clinical evaluation.
This case highlights a 28-year-old female who presented with an asymptomatic growth on her left upper back, raising suspicion for a lipoma—a common benign fatty tumor. Through a detailed exam, counseling, and a structured diagnostic plan, we were able to guide her through next steps with clarity and reassurance.
Patient Overview
Chief Complaint
A moderate-sized growth on the left lateral upper back
Present for several months
No pain or drainage
Attempted self-drainage with a needle (but no material expressed)
Exam Findings
A focused dermatologic examination of the back showed:
A soft, mobile subcutaneous nodule
No signs of active drainage
Mild warmth to the touch
No systemic symptoms
Dermatoscopic evaluation supported a diagnosis of lipoma
The patient otherwise appeared well, alert, oriented, and in no distress.
Clinical Impression: Suspected Lipoma
A lipoma is a benign, non-cancerous tumor composed of fatty tissue. They are extremely common, often slow-growing, and typically harmless.
In this case, the attempted self-puncture introduced the possibility of local inflammation or early infection, explaining the mild warmth on examination.
Treatment Plan & Recommendations
1. Short Course of Antibiotics
To reduce any potential infection from the prior needle poke:
Doxycycline 100 mg
Taken twice daily for 2 weeks
With food, and avoid lying flat for 30 minutes after swallowing
This helps calm inflammation and prevent deeper infection.
2. Ultrasound of the Upper Back
An ultrasound was ordered to:
Confirm the diagnosis
Determine the depth, borders, and size of the mass
Assess whether the lesion is appropriate for in-office removal
Help guide referral if needed
The patient was given instructions and the necessary form to complete the imaging study.
3. Surgical Options
Based on ultrasound findings:
Small to moderate lipomas can often be excised in-office by our dermatologic surgeon
Large or deep lipomas are referred to a general surgeon for removal under appropriate anesthesia
4. Patient Counseling & Education
During the visit, we reviewed:
What to Expect
Lipomas are benign fatty tumors
They typically stay stable or grow very slowly
Removal is optional unless painful, enlarging, or bothersome
When to Call Us
Rapid growth
New pain, redness, or fever
Drainage, bruising, or sudden changes
5. Follow-Up
Follow-up was recommended as needed (PRN) after completing her imaging results and antibiotic course.
Why Professional Evaluation Matters
Although lipomas are benign, other growths—such as cysts, infections, or rarely liposarcomas—can mimic their appearance.
A proper dermatologic evaluation ensures:
Accurate diagnosis
Appropriate imaging
Safe removal when necessary
Avoidance of complications from self-treatment
At Village Dermatology in Katy and Houston, we provide comprehensive care for skin growths, tumors, cysts, and soft tissue lesions with expert evaluation and advanced treatment options.
