Large lipoma of the finger masquerading as a giant cell tumor: A diagnostic pitfall in an uncommon site.

introduction and importanceA lipoma is a benign soft tissue tumor made up of mature adipocytes, typically presenting as slow-growing, painless masses. While lipomas are common in areas such as the trunk, shoulders, and neck, their occurrence on the fingers is extremely rare. Due to the confined space and functional importance of the digits, large lipomas in this location can present unique clinical challenges. CASE PRESENTATION: We reported a 40-year-old female complaining of a painless, slowly growing lump on her middle finger. Both ultrasound and radiographs revealed a distinct, lobulated tumor with varying intensities, which raised suspicion for a giant cell tumor. CLINICAL DISCUSSION: We performed surgical excision, removed a large yellowish lobulated mass, and confirmed it as a lipoma by histopathological examination. We observed no recurrence in the 2-year follow-up.

conclusionAlthough it is very rare, a lipoma is one of the possible causes of a benign finger lesion. Clinicians should also consider the possibility of malignant degeneration in an unusually large lipoma until proven otherwise.