LIPOMATOSIS…is the presence of multiple lipomas on the body.  Lipomas are adipose tumors….these are tumor growths filled with mature fat cells.  Lipomatosis is also referred to as: liposis or adiposis.  Whatever it is called…it simple means an abnormal localized tumor like accumulation of fat in the tissues.  Many discrete, encapsulated lipomas form on the body trunk and extremities with very few on the head.  In 1993, a genetic defect within lipomas was localized to chromosome 12q15, where the HMGIC gene encodes the high-mobility-group protein isoform 1-C.  This is one of the most commonly found mutations in solitary lipomatous tumors, while lipomas often have multiple mutations.  Other chromosomes have also been observed.

Other entities often accompanied by multiple lipomas include Proteus syndrome, Cowden syndrome and related disorders due to PTEN gene mutations, benign symmetric lipomatosis (Madelung disease), familial lipodystrophy, hibernomas and familial angiolipomatosis.  Below I outline some symptoms….because more people are presenting today with lipomas….it is important to educate on this subject.

SYMPTOMS of FAMILIAL LIPOMATOSIS (FML)…FML is a rare disorder that tends to run in families and affects both men and women.  It is hereditary and shows up as groups of fat cells in the subcutaneous tissues that begin to grow and produce multiple fatty lumps of “benign” fatty tumors (lipomas).

• Usually appear on the abdomen, arms, thighs, neck
• Can also appear on the face, buttocks, lower legs
• Tend to vary widely in size…& may or may not be surrounded by connective tissue
• May or may not be attached to the skin & nearby muscle
• They are rubbery, moveable & ovoid to round in shape
• Are not usually painful (unless in an irritated area)
• Can appear singularly or in clusters
• Typically appear during of soon after adolescence
• Extreme cases can grow to appear grotesque & can interfere with mobility, movement & cause disfigurement

LIPOMA REMOVAL REQUIRES THE SKILLS OF A QUALIFIED SURGEON…LIPOMA cases are nearly always referred to a surgeon who is skilled and qualified in their removal.

My previous blog covered methods of Lipoma’s removal…surgical excision, endoscopic removal, liposuction and a simple “squeeze” technique I have developed that safely and effectively removes many lipomas within just seconds through a small incision.

LIPOMATOSIS….NOBODY WANTS IT…WE CAN DEAL WITH IT!  If you, a friend or loved one has been suffering with Lipomas.  Please know there is help!  Come in and let’s get your treatment plan going so you can be free again.

OK….MY NEXT BLOG WILL COVER KELOIDS….THEN WE’LL GET OFF THIS TRACK AND GET BACK INTO BEACH BODY TOPICS!

HOPE EVERYONE IS HAVING A WONDERFUL SPRING!

Steven Davison M.D.

“DAVinci….where I combine the supreme elements of art and surgical science.”