Naevus lipomatosus superficialis pathology

Naevus lipomatosus superficialis is a rare lesion. It is regarded as a connective tissue naevus by most authorities. It can occur as either a single dermal papule or as a cluster of multiple papules and nodules.

Histology of naevus lipomatosus superficialis

Sections of naevus lipomatosus superficialis show mature adipose tissue within the superficial and mid dermis (figure 1). There are frequently foci of fibrosis intermixed with the fat (figure 2).

Figure 1 

Figure 2 

Special studies for naevus lipomatosus superficialis

None are needed.

Differential diagnosis of naevus lipomatosus superficialis

Fibrolipoma – Solitary naevus lipomatosus superficialis is histologically identical to fibrolipoma.

Normal fat – Unremarkable adipose tissue is not seen in the superficial dermis of normal skin.