Study of a Subcutaneous Lesion of the Shoulder: The Saint Paolino Tumor

Abstract

Summary: In certain small counties in southern Italy, traditional Catholic festivals are observed by erecting tall, large, and weighty wagons referred to as “lilies.” These wagons are borne on the shoulders of several individuals known as “cradles.” This practice has given rise to the emergence of a distinct subcutaneous neoformation on the shoulder. This study investigates the unique clinical and anatomopathological attributes of “Saint Paolino tumor” (named in honor of the Catholic patron of the widely celebrated lilies festival). This tumor presents as a posttraumatic intermittent chronic lesion occurring on the shoulder, necessitating differential diagnosis from other cutaneous and soft tissue lesions such as spontaneous lipomas, elastofibroma, Madelung disease, and liposarcoma.