Spinal lipomas are distinct clinical and surgical entities. Four such patients, on whom 5 operations were performed are reported. The pathology and pathogenesis are discussed. As concerns the surgical treatment of such lesions, their subpial location calls for a very careful surgical approach, in order to avoid neurological damage, in particular when the tumour is adherent to the spinal cord, as often occurs. Finally, it is noted that pregnancy seems to precipitate the onset of symptoms.