Published online Sep 26, 2019. doi: 10.12998/wjcc.v7.i18.2899
Peer-review started: March 28, 2019
First decision: May 13, 2019
Revised: July 23, 2019
Accepted: July 27, 2019
Article in press: July 27, 2019
Published online: September 26, 2019
Pleomorphic lipoma (PL) is a rare benign mesenchymal tumor occurring predominantly in middle-aged and elderly men. It is typically found in the subcutaneous tissue of the posterior neck, back, and shoulders. There have also been a few reported cases in the face, scalp, and upper extremities. Currently, there is no report on its occurrence in the anterior mediastinum.
Herein, we report the case of a 67-year-old woman diagnosed with PL in the anterior mediastinum. The tumor was removed by thoracoscopic surgery. There was no recurrence during the 24-mo follow-up period, and the prognosis was good. Most PL are located on the skin surface. However, they may also occur within the body, even in the mediastinum.
PL occurring in the anterior mediastinum is rare, and it may be differentiated from other tumors.
Core tip: Pleomorphic lipoma (PL) primarily occur in the superficial subcutaneous compartments of the neck, shoulders, and back. This unusual neoplasm has also been documented in the tongue, orbit, bulbar conjunctiva, parotid gland, oral cavity, dermis, scalp, and breasts. Currently, there is no report on its occurrence in the anterior mediastinum. Therefore, the clinical features and treatment of anterior mediastinal PL are limited.