Submucosal lipomas of the colon

Abstract

Summary and Conclusions The pertinent data in 12 cases of lipoma of the colon have been presented. Next to adenomatous polyps, lipomas are the most common benign tumors of the colon. The symptoms are inconspicuous until the occurrence of complications, such as ulceration, bleeding, intussusception or obstruction. Submucosal lipomas of the rectum or lower sigmoid present a distinctive proctoscopic appearance, and usually can be removed proctoscopically. Above the proctoscopic level, roentgenologic examination is successful in demonstrating the presence of most lipomas. The radiolucent shadow of a submucosal lipoma is smoothly out-lined, sharply defined, occasionally pedunculated and often distinctive enough to suggest a diagnosis of lipoma. Surgical removal is the only satisfactory treatment.