Lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis--a report of six cases.

Lipoblastoma and lipoblastomatosis are rare examples of benign mesenchymal tumors that exhibit a tendency to invade locally but not to metastasize. The tumors are found primarily in children less than 5 years of age and can arise almost anywhere within the soft tissues. The rate of growth is variable and has no bearing on prognosis, which is excellent in the majority of cases. The experience at Childrens Hospital of Los Angeles with six children (3 males, 3 females) having these tumors is described. There was no instance of recurrence after surgical removal of the tumors, with follow-up periods ranging from 3 months to 5 years. Histologic appearance and outcome were similar in all patients, and there was no relationship between histologic appearance and prognosis. Complete local excision without radical mutilating resection is the treatment of choice.