This information is provided by the National Institutes of Health (NIH) Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD).
Multiple symmetric lipomatosis is a rare condition characterized by the symmetric growth of fatty tumors (lipomas) around the neck, shoulders, upper arms and/or upper trunk.[6060] It most often affects men of Mediterranean ancestry between the ages of 30 and 70 who have a history of alcohol abuse. Non-alcoholics and women can also be affected. The signs and symptoms vary greatly from person to person.[2499] Usually, accumulation of fatty tissue increases over time and may lead to a loss of neck mobility and pain.[6059] The lipomas can cause physical deformity and peripheral neuropathy, when they compress a nerve. In the majority of cases, the condition does not lead to cancer; however, lipomas can become cancerous in rare circumstances.[2499] The exact cause of the condition is unknown, but it may be associated with mutations in mitochondrial DNA.[6059] Treatment may include medications to correct associated metabolic conditions, surgery or liposuction to remove the lipomas, and avoidance of alcohol.[2499]
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