Lipedema, a frequently unrecognized problem.
Lipedema is characterized by symmetric lower extremity enlargement secondary to the deposition of fat. Lipedema is not rare, but it is commonly misdiagnosed as lymphedema. We describe a 20-year-old woman with massive lower extremity enlargement that did not respond to compression therapy. Magnetic resonance imaging of the lower extremities helped to confirm the diagnosis.
Fonder
Margaret A
MA
Department of Dermatology, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.
Loveless
James W
JW
Lazarus
Gerald S
GS
D000328:Adult; D004487:Edema / Q000150:complications / Q000175:diagnosis / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007866:Leg / Q000473:pathology; D007871:Leg Ulcer / Q000209:etiology; D008209:Lymphedema / Q000209:etiology; D008279:Magnetic Resonance Imaging; D016135:Spinal Dysraphism / Q000150:complications; D050151:Subcutaneous Fat / Q000473:pathology*