Background: Pseudolipomas are normal adipose tissues that accumulate in abnormal locations and postulate an association with trauma. Post-traumatic pseudolipomas (PTLs) are benign, soft tissue tumors that develop in various anatomic sites following acute, chronic or repetitive trauma. PTLs remain a poorly recognized and investigated clinical entity. They follow a benign course and early recognition of this clinical entity may allay anxiety in patients who suspect a more serious underlying condition or malignancy.
Case presentation: We present an unusual case of a 31 year old male with a history of repetitive surfboard trauma in the past presenting with symmetric, painless soft tissue swelling of upper abdomen. Magnetic resonance imaging was consistent with Ventral PTLs.
Conclusion: PTLs are a distinct clinicopathological entity but, owing to unpredictable presentations, are poorly recognized by physicians and surgeons alike. Inclusion of PTL in the differential of a lipomatous lesion can be achieved by eliciting a prior history of trauma. PTLs have not been documented to undergo malignant transformation and patient anxiety may be allayed with the diagnosis. Liposuction or surgical excision may be offered for cosmetic reasons or if symptoms arise.
Key words: Ventral Post-traumatic Pseudolipoma, male, surfboard trauma, case report
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