Lipoblastoma of the Scalp in a Pediatric Patient.

Abstract

Lipoblastoma, a rare benign tumor composed of immature fat cells, typically arises in the first 3 years of life. Although commonly found in the extremities and trunk, occurrences on the scalp are exceedingly rare. We present a case report of a lipoblastoma located on the scalp of a 5-year-old female patient. The patient presented with a painless, gradually enlarging mass over a 6-month period. Clinical and radiological evaluation confirmed the presence of a well-defined, lobulated lesion with adipose density. Surgical excision was performed, and histopathologic examination revealed characteristic features of lipoblastoma, including lipoblast-like cells and lobules of adipose tissue, separated by fibrous connective tissue septae of varying thickness surrounded by a fibrocartilaginous capsule. To our knowledge, this is the fourth documented case of lipoblastoma originating in the scalp region in a pediatric patient. Given the rarity of lipoblastoma in this location, this case highlights the importance of considering lipoblastoma as a differential diagnosis when evaluating scalp masses in children. Awareness of atypical presentations and histopathologic features can aid in accurate diagnosis and appropriate management, which usually involves complete surgical resection. Further studies are warranted to explore the genetic and molecular underpinnings of these unique cases, contributing to a better understanding of the pathogenesis of lipoblastomas in various anatomical sites.