HSS Ultrasound Case 72

Clinical History 50 year old female with slowly-growing palpable mass along the antecubital fossa of the elbow An ultrasound was requested to rule out a soft tissue mass

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 72

1

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 72

2

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 72

3

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 72

4

Diagnosis Lipoma of the antecubital fossa of the elbow

Discussion Soft tissue lipomas are benign tumors composed of mature adipocytes that usually present as an incidental soft palpable mass.

Although they are benign, they may require imaging to confirm that it is a lipoma and not an aggressive neoplasm.

MRI is the most accurate modality for characterizing fat-containing tumors that are located in the deep soft tissues.

For superficial lesions, ultrasound is also an accurate modality for confirming that a palpable mass is indeed a lipoma. Compared to MRI, ultrasound is more cost effective, faster, and better tolerated by patients.

Ultrasound of the Month – Case 72

5