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Lumps and tumours in a child's abdomen

Most lumps in a child are harmless, such as a lipoma, but a lump in the tummy always needs examination.

Clinical photograph of a lipoma (fatty lump) on a child's abdomen
A lipoma, a fatty lump, on a child's abdomen. Photograph taken by Dr. Shahinur Rahman Shaoun.

What is a lipoma?

A lipoma is a soft, slow-growing lump made of fat just under the skin. It is painless and almost always harmless.

What parents notice

  • A soft, smooth lump on the tummy or elsewhere that does not hurt.
  • It moves a little under the skin and grows slowly.
  • A hard or fast-growing lump deep in the tummy is different and needs urgent checking.

Go to a hospital soon if

  • The tummy is swollen, hard or growing quickly.
  • There is fever, weight loss, vomiting or blood in the urine.
  • The lump is hard and does not move.

Tests and treatment

The surgeon examines the lump. An ultrasound, and if needed a CT scan or blood tests, show what it is and where it comes from. A lipoma is removed by a small operation if it is growing, bothersome or the diagnosis is uncertain. Deeper tumours are planned together with other specialists.

Common questions

Does every lump need an operation?

No. Some small harmless lumps are only watched; the surgeon decides after examination.

Can a lipoma become cancer?

It almost never does, but any lump that changes quickly should be re-examined.

This page is for general information for parents. Every child is different: after examination and tests, an experienced paediatric surgeon decides the condition and the method of treatment. So for any problem, please consult a registered paediatric surgeon.

This photograph is published only to give educational information about the signs and treatment of the condition. The necessary verbal consent of the patient/guardian has been taken. It is not used for any sexual or entertainment purpose.