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Findings: In the central inferior aspect of the left breast, there is a 10.5 x 11.0 cm fatty mass partially circumscribed by a thin capsule. Three calcifications of fat necrosis are associated with it. The mass displaces the adjacent parenchyma superiorly and laterally.

Diagnosis: Lipoma.

Discussion: Lipoma is a benign circumscribed fat-containing mass which is soft and mobile. Mammographically, it presents as completely radiolucent fatty lesion surrounded by a thin radiopaque capsule. This appearance is diagnostic for a lipoma. It may distort the adjacent parenchyma, but does not infiltrate or undergo malignant degeneration. It is subject to possible necrosis and may contain calcification of fat necrosis (as is this case).

References:
Bassett LW, et al. Diagnosis of the Breast. Philadelphia, W.B. Saunders Co., 1997.

Kopans DB, Breast Imaging. Philadelphia, J.B. Lippincott Co., 1989.

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