Lipoma on the Tongue

Abstract

Lipomas are benign mesenchymal tumors composed of mature adipose tissue. While common in the head and neck region, they are rarely found intraorally, representing 1-5 % of all tumors. The tongue is an uncommon site, despite isolated cases being reported. Clinically, lipomas present as slow-growing, soft, mobile nodules, including a shimmering yellowish appearance, beneath intact mucosa. Trauma and hereditary or metaplastic processes have been proposed as possible etiologic factors. Diagnosis is primarily clinical but must be confirmed histopathologically, especially due to overlapping features with other benign or malignant tumors. In the present case, a 61-year-old patient with multiple systemic conditions presented with a painless, submucosal soft tissue mass (approximately 1 cm) on the right lateral border of the tongue. The lesion was completely excised under local anesthesia. Healing was uneventful. Histopathological analysis confirmed the diagnosis of a lipoma.