What is a colon lipoma?

Colonic lipoma is a benign soft tissue tumor occurring in the inner wall of the colon, primarily composed of mature adipocytes. It is one of the common types of benign tumors in the large intestine and may appear as solitary or multiple lesions, ranging in size from several millimeters to several centimeters. Colonic lipomas predominantly affect individuals over 60 years of age, with a higher prevalence in women than in men. Clinically, some patients may be asymptomatic, while others may experience abdominal pain, rectal bleeding, changes in bowel habits (such as diarrhea or constipation), or palpable abdominal masses. If not effectively managed, the condition may progress to complications such as intussusception, intestinal obstruction, or bowel perforation. The etiology of colonic lipoma may involve chronic inflammation, infection, inadequate blood supply, viral infection, or mucosal injury of the colon, and may also be related to genetic factors or other unknown causes. Patients suspected of having colonic lipoma are advised to seek timely medical evaluation.