Adiposis dolorosa

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Disease Overview

Adiposis dolorosa is a rare condition characterized by the growth of multiple, painful, lipomas (benign, fatty tumors). The lipomas may occur anywhere on the body and can cause severe pain. Other symptoms may include weakness, fatigue, and memory disturbances. It usually occurs in adults, and women are more commonly affected than men. Adiposis dolorosa is chronic and tends to be progressive. The exact cause is unknown. Most cases are sporadic (not inherited) but a few familial cases with autosomal dominant inheritance have been reported. The pain associated with adiposis dolorosa is difficult to treat. Surgical removal or liposuction may help, but lipomas may recur.[10563][10564][10565][10567][10571]


Synonyms

  • Dercum disease
  • Dercum's disease

For more information, visit GARD.

National Organization for Rare Disorders