Lipoblastoma of the Thigh in Children: A Case Report

Aims: Lipoblastoma is a rare and benign tumor originating from embryonal fat, affecting primarily children under 3 years. It has no malignant potential, but it’s known for fast growth and recurrence if not completely resected. The aim of our paper is to evaluate the clinical presentation, diagnostic challenges, management strategies, and outcomes of thigh lipoblastoma.

Case Presentation: A 16-month-old boy with no significant medical history was brought to our hospital due to a four-month-growing mass on the back of his left thigh. Examination revealed a large, solid, painful mass without systemic symptoms. Imaging (X-ray, ultrasound, MRI) identified a large, hyperechoic mass with specific characteristics suggesting lipoblastoma, confirmed by the pathological study after excision. The tumor was successfully removed under general anesthesia, with no postoperative complications or recurrence after one year follow-up.

Discussion: First described in 1973, lipoblastoma is a benign tumor from embryonal white fat, varying in presentation from localized, superficial masses to diffuse forms, that are mostly located in the extremities. It primarily affects male infants under the age of 3 years old. The tumor’s clinical presentation can range from asymptomatic to invasive and can cause morbidity when affecting vital structures. Diagnosis primarily relies on the MRI for its distinct imaging features; however definitive confirmation differentiation from the differential diagnosis (lipoma and myxoid liposarcoma) requires anatomopathological study. Ensuring complete surgical removal with free margins is vital to prevent recurrence.

Conclusion: Lipoblastoma should be a key consideration in the differential diagnosis of fatty masses in young children under the age of 3 years. Despite its benign character, the follow-up is crucial to confirm there's no recurrence, even after complete resection.