Lipoma in uncommon site: A case report of finger lipoma from Nepal

Introduction: Lipomas are the most common benign mesenchymal tumors, making up 50 % of soft tissue tumors. However, while they frequently occur in areas like the head, neck, shoulders, and back, lipomas in the hands and wrists are rare, particularly in the fingers where they are exceptionally uncommon. Case presentation: We present a case of 62-year-old female presented with a six-year history of a gradually enlarging, painful swelling on the palmar aspect at the base of her left index finger. Examination revealed a soft, fluctuating, 3 cm x 2 cm swelling. USG and MRI suspected it to be a lipoma. The lesion was excised, and histopathology confirmed a benign lipoma. Discussion: Lipomas, derived from mesenchymal preadipocytes, often have genetic and metabolic links, including in individuals with obesity, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. While typically asymptomatic, lipomas in the hands and fingers can cause pain and impairment, necessitating surgical resection. Accurate diagnosis may require imaging, and treatment yields favourable outcomes with low recurrence rates. Conclusion: Despite their rarity, lipomas in the hands and fingers should be considered when evaluating nondischarging swellings. Surgical resection is the primary treatment.