Adiposis Dolorosa (also called Dercum disease)
Last Updated: 2023-09-28
Author(s): Navarini A.A.
ICD11: -
Last Updated: 2023-09-28
Author(s): Navarini A.A.
ICD11: -
Dercum's disease, known as adiposis dolorosa, was first documented in the late 19th century by the US neurologist Francis Xavier Dercum.
Adiposis dolorosa is characterised by multiple, painful subcutaneous lipomas or painful fatty tissue. Obese women between 35 and 50 years of age are particularly affected.
Mainly overweight women in the age range of 35 to 50 years are affected. The exact prevalence is not clear, but women are 5 to 30 times more likely to be affected than men
There are four main types:
The exact cause and development is not clear. Some studies point to disturbances in fatty acid metabolism or insulin resistance. There are also assumptions of an autoimmune process, problems of the nervous system or inflammatory reactions.
Main features are pain and paraesthesia in the area of the lipoma. The intensity of the pain often increases with the BMI. Accompanying symptoms can be, for example, sleep problems, memory loss, concentration problems or depression. Onset can be sudden or gradual between the ages of 35 and 50.
Diagnosis is strongly based on clinical examination, especially palpation of painful nodules. Imaging techniques such as ultrasound or MRI can be supportive. Specific laboratory tests do not exist.
There is currently no set treatment plan. Most treatments target the symptoms, such as pain relief through medication or weight loss. Some patients find relief through liposuction or surgical removal of painful areas of fat tissue.
The disease is chronic but not fatal. The course of the disease can vary, with some patients experiencing an increase in symptoms while others report improvement.
Due to the unknown aetiology, there are no specific preventive measures.
We Value Your Privacy!
We and our partners are using technologies like cookies and process personal data like the IP-address or browser information in order to personalize the advertising that you see. This helps us to show you more relevant ads and improves your internet experience. We also use it in order to measure results or align our website content. Because we value your privacy, we are herewith asking for your permission to use these technologies. You can always change/withdraw your consent later.