The nature of lipomas and their significance in the oral cavity: A review and report of cases

Abstract

Clinicopathologic evaluation of sixteen intraoral lipomas is presented, and the nature and significance of these tumors in the oral cavity are considered. The lesions appear as asymptomatic, freely movable masses, most commonly in the cheek. Histologically, lipomas are composed of mature fat cells, although a variable collagenous component may be prominent. Their etiology is uncertain; development may reflect increased adipose mitotic activity via a traumatic or metabolic trigger mechanism. The malignant potential of the solitary lipoma is discussed.