Angiolipoma in the head and neck: Imaging, diagnosis and management

Abstract

Angiolipoma, distinguishable from other lipomas by its excessive degree of vascular vessels, are rare in the head and neck and require unique management. A slow growing mass, located underneath the inferior border of the right mandibular angle of a 51-year-old female, was excised under general anesthesia. Unexpected excessive bleeding during the excision was observed and the histological specimen was diagnosed as angiolipoma. As shown in this case report, pre-operative imaging modalities have a crucial influence and are sufficient to diagnose and manage angiolipomas. The “Gold standard” treatment is excision with clear margins and bleeding management should be taken into account according to appropriate differential diagnosis.