ABSTRACT
BACKGROUND: Lipomas are benign neoplasms composed of mature fat cells. Current treatments are invasive and carry the risk of scarring. For this reason, phosphatidylcholine (PPC) formula has been widely used to treat areas of localized fat accumulation. However, there are few reports on injection lipolysis with injection of PPC formula. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate whether injection lipolysis with PPC formula is an effective therapeutic option for patients with lipoma. METHODS: Twenty-two lipomas in 7 patients were included. Three sessions at intervals of 6 to 8 weeks were done. Sonographic measurements of lipoma size were repeated before each session. Any side-effects and the patients' satisfaction were noted. In one lipoma, histological changes after lipolysis were described. RESULTS: After three sessions, a significant reduction in lipoma size of 47.4% was achieved. Histology showed a fibrosis with loss of adipocytes. Inflammation occurred in one case, so the patient was excluded from this study. Transient burning sensation and swelling at the injection site were the most common adverse effects. No severe side-effects or systemic reactions were observed. CONCLUSION: Treatment of lipoma with PPC formula has the potential to be a patient-friendly and well-tolerated therapy that can achieve cosmetically pleasing treatment outcomes.