Palmar lipoma: A rare presentation of a common tumour involving a branch of the median nerve: A case report

Lipoma is one of the most common mesenchymal tissue tumours. It may develop at any site throughout the body, although some are more common than others. Patients usually complain only about a "growing swelling". Through this case presentation, we aim to highlight routinely diagnosed lipoma at one of its rarer locations, i.e. palmar lipoma at the first interdigital space. An otherwise healthy female with right palmar swelling and symptoms like pain, paraesthesia and restricted movements visited the orthopaedic outpatient. The preliminary clinical examination helped delineate the area involved, identifying the neuro-vasculature affected, the extent of tissue compression and subsequent damage. Imaging and invasive testing were conducted. The results obtained were consistent with our clinical suspicions. Definitive treatment of lipoma involves surgical excision. Resection almost always results in symptom resolution. Physiotherapy is an integral part of post-op rehabilitation. Although palmar lipomas are rare, they have an excellent prognosis.