Introduction Demographics Causes Clinical features Complications Diagnosis Differential diagnoses Treatment Outcome
Naevus lipomatosus superficialis is a developmental malformation (a cutaneous hamartoma or type of birthmark).
Two types are described: the classical type (also called Hoffmann-Zurhelle) and the solitary type. Other names for naevus lipomatosus superficialis are superficial lipomatous naevus and fat naevus.
(See also DermNet's page on naevus lipomatosus superficialis pathology).
Naevus lipomatosus superficialis is rare. It can affect anyone regardless of sex or race.
The classical type of naevus lipomatosus superficialis is present at birth or appears during the first 3 decades of life. The solitary type arises after the second decade in adult life.
The cause of naevus lipomatosus superficialis is unknown.
In the more common classical form of naevus lipomatosus superficialis, there are clusters of soft, yellow, skin-coloured lumpy lesions on the lower back, buttock and upper thigh, usually following a pattern of a single nerve distribution of that area (a zosteriform pattern). The nodules can be pedunculated or sessile with a smooth or wrinkled surface. They may be hairy or show comedo-like plugs.
In the solitary form, there is a single soft, yellow, skin-coloured subcutaneous swelling that can occur anywhere on the body.
The skin lesions are not associated with any symptoms.
The main patient concern is cosmetic.
Naevus lipomatosus superficialis can rarely present with ulceration and necrosis.
Naevus lipomatosus superficialis is diagnosed by histopathological examination of a skin biopsy. Mature adipose cells are found in the dermis and are not connected to the subcutaneous tissue where fat cells usually reside.
The classical type of naevus lipomatosus superficialis may be misdiagnosed as:
The solitary type may be misdiagnosed as a:
As naevus lipomatosus superficialis is a benign condition, it is best left untreated.
Surgical excision is the best option if treatment is needed for a cosmetic reason or if the lesion is ulcerated.
Excision of naevus lipomatosus superficialis is usually curative.
