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Funke S, Kuhlmann C, Taha S, Fuchs B, Wiggenhauser PS, Giunta RE. [Searching for Evidence: A Systematic Review of the Pathology of Lipoedema]. HANDCHIR MIKROCHIR P 2023; 55:411-426. [PMID: 37984363 DOI: 10.1055/a-2183-7414] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lipoedema is a symmetrically localised, painful hypertrophy of subcutaneous adipose tissue in the extremities with marked disproportion to the trunk, and almost exclusively affects females. Despite being first described over 80 years ago, the aetiology and pathogenesis of the disease are largely unknown and are currently the subject of intensive research efforts. METHODS To summarise the current evidence-based literature on the cellular pathologies and aetiology of lipoedema, a PRISMA-based systematic review was conducted within the National Library of Medicine and Cochrane databases. RESULTS A total of 53 studies were identified and included in this review. The results were classified and summarised into categories. CONCLUSION Although there has been a significant increase in research activity and recent publication of extensive studies with a histological and molecular genetic focus, the fundamental aetiology and pathology of lipoedema remains largely unclear. The current data shows discrepancies across studies, particularly with regard to the "oedematous" component of lipoedema. The frequently present comorbidities "lymphoedema" and "obesity", primarily in advanced stages of lipoedema, complicate the diagnostic differentiation and clear definition of study cohorts in scientific research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Funke
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, LMU-Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München, Deutschland
| | - Constanze Kuhlmann
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, LMU-Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München, Deutschland
| | - Sara Taha
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, LMU-Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München, Deutschland
| | - Benedikt Fuchs
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, LMU-Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München, Deutschland
| | - Paul Severin Wiggenhauser
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, LMU-Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München, Deutschland
| | - Riccardo E Giunta
- Abteilung für Handchirurgie, Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie, LMU-Klinikum, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität, München, Deutschland
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2
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Seefeldt T, Klietz-Aitzetmüller ML, Kückelhaus M, Wiebringhaus P, Hirsch T, Harati K, Aitzetmüller-Klietz MM. Breaking the circle-effectiveness of liposuction in lipedema. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges 2023. [PMID: 37190925 DOI: 10.1111/ddg.15064] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 02/19/2023] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lipedema is a common chronic fat distribution disorder often aligned with pain and reduced quality of life affecting 6-10% of the female population. Although lipedema has acquired more scientific attention in the last decade, validated diagnosis and treatment still remain challenging for specialists. PATIENTS AND METHODS In this article we evaluate the effect of liposuction on appearance, pain and coexisting diseases of 860 patients with lipedema. Comparison among stages of lipedema pre- and post-liposuction was performed by using t-Tests for independent samples and Kruskal-Wallis-Tests. RESULTS Our study demonstrates the positive effect on pain reduction in patients with lipedema after liposuction (NRS 2.24) compared with pre-liposuction pain perception (NRS 6.99) and pain perception of patients with conservative treatment (NRS 6.26). Significant differences were shown in the perception between the stages of lipedema and in the reduction of pain perception by liposuction. Furthermore we examined co-diseases in patients with lipedema, primarily menstruation complaints (43%), sleeplessness (36%) and migraine (35%). CONCLUSIONS A progress of lipedema disease leads not only to a change of appearance and proportion but also to a progressive increase of pain. Liposuction shows a significant effect on pain reduction -independent of the patients' stage of lipedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Seefeldt
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
| | - Marie-Luise Klietz-Aitzetmüller
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
| | - Maximilian Kückelhaus
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
| | - Philipp Wiebringhaus
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
| | - Tobias Hirsch
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
| | - Kamran Harati
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
| | - Matthias M Aitzetmüller-Klietz
- Division of Plastic Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department for Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute for Muskuloskeletal Medicine, Westfaelische Wilhelms-University Muenster, Muenster, Germany
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, Muenster, Germany
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3
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Mackie H, Thompson BM, Suami H, Heydon-White A, Blackwell R, Tisdall Blake F, Koelmeyer LA. Differentiation of lipoedema from bilateral lower limb lymphoedema by imaging assessment of indocyanine green lymphography. Clin Obes 2023; 13:e12588. [PMID: 36814359 DOI: 10.1111/cob.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/12/2022] [Revised: 01/30/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/24/2023]
Abstract
Lipoedema is characterized by disproportionate painful fat accumulation mostly in the lower limbs. The presence of lymphoedema in lipoedema remains controversial. This study aimed to assess the presence or absence of lymphoedema in the lower limbs of women with lipoedema using indocyanine green (ICG) lymphography. A cross-sectional retrospective study was undertaken in women with a clinical diagnosis of lipoedema whose lower limbs were examined with ICG lymphography. MD Anderson Cancer Center (MDACC) ICG staging was used to determine lymphoedema presence and severity. Patient characteristics, ICG lymphography findings, Stemmer sign, body mass index, waist-to-hip ratio, limb volume and bioimpedance spectroscopy measures were recorded. Forty women with lipoedema underwent ICG lymphography for the lower limbs from January 2018 to July 2022. Thirty-four women (85.0%) were determined by ICG lymphography as MDACC ICG Stage 0 representing normal lymphatics. Of the six women who demonstrated dermal backflow on ICG lymphography, all were determined as ICG Stage 1, four had localized traumatic dermal backflow area at their ankles, one had previously diagnosed with primary lymphoedema and one was classified as lipoedema stage 4. ICG lymphography findings suggested the absence of lymphoedema in a clear majority of women with lower limb lipoedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Mackie
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
- Mount Wilga Private Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Belinda M Thompson
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hiroo Suami
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Asha Heydon-White
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Robbie Blackwell
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Fiona Tisdall Blake
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Louise A Koelmeyer
- Australian Lymphoedema Education, Research & Treatment (ALERT) Program, Department of Health Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Health and Human Sciences, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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4
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Amato ACM, Amato FCM, Amato JLS, Benitti DA. Lipedema prevalence and risk factors in Brazil. J Vasc Bras 2022; 21:e20210198. [PMID: 35677743 PMCID: PMC9136687 DOI: 10.1590/1677-5449.202101981] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lipedema is characterized as an abnormal deposition of fat in the buttocks and legs bilaterally that may be accompanied by swelling, pain, and tenderness. It is still often confused with more frequent conditions such as obesity and lymphedema. The estimated prevalence in Europe varies between 0.06% and 39%. Objectives To evaluate the prevalence of lipedema and identify health factors related to it in the Brazilian population. Methods Administration of a previously validated online screening questionnaire to a representative sample of the general population. The questionnaire was distributed and administered to anonymous volunteers representing the general Brazilian population using software designed for population analyses. Results 253 women answered the questionnaire, 12.3 ± 4% (Confidence Interval [CI] 95%) of whom presented symptoms compatible with a high probability of being diagnosed with lipedema. Furthermore, anxiety, depression, hypertension, and anemia were also correlated with a high probability of the diagnosis. Conclusions The estimated prevalence of lipedema in the population of Brazilian women is 12.3%.
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5
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Amato ACM, Amato FCM, Amato JLS, Benitti DA. Lipedema prevalence and risk factors in Brazil. J Vasc Bras 2022. [DOI: 10.1590/1677-5449.202101982] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract Background Lipedema is characterized as an abnormal deposition of fat in the buttocks and legs bilaterally that may be accompanied by swelling, pain, and tenderness. It is still often confused with more frequent conditions such as obesity and lymphedema. The estimated prevalence in Europe varies between 0.06% and 39%. Objectives To evaluate the prevalence of lipedema and identify health factors related to it in the Brazilian population. Methods Administration of a previously validated online screening questionnaire to a representative sample of the general population. The questionnaire was distributed and administered to anonymous volunteers representing the general Brazilian population using software designed for population analyses. Results 253 women answered the questionnaire, 12.3 ± 4% (Confidence Interval [CI] 95%) of whom presented symptoms compatible with a high probability of being diagnosed with lipedema. Furthermore, anxiety, depression, hypertension, and anemia were also correlated with a high probability of the diagnosis. Conclusions The estimated prevalence of lipedema in the population of Brazilian women is 12.3%.
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6
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Hesse U, Hesse A, Hesse L, Schultz E, Kaiser M. Lipödem heute: Zwischen konservativer Therapie, Liposuktion und Adipositaschirurgie. AKTUELLE DERMATOLOGIE 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1525-5956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
ZusammenfassungDie zunehmende Prävalenz des Lipödems geht einher mit einer demografischen Zunahme der Adipositas per magna.Konservative und operative Maßnahmen ermöglichen eine ausgeprägte Befund- und Beschwerdebesserung.Die exakte Diagnose und Differenzierung zwischen therapiebedürftiger Adipositas und therapiebedürftigem Lipödem entscheiden über Erfolg und Misserfolg der eingeleiteten Therapie.Nach konservativem Therapieversuch kann die operative Versorgung bei Ausbleiben einer entsprechenden Besserung durch Liposuktion oder adipositaschirurgische Intervention bei einem erheblichen Teil der Betroffenen die konservative Therapie reduzieren bzw. teilweise sogar ganz überflüssig machen.
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Affiliation(s)
- U. Hesse
- Adipositas und Metabolische Chirurgie, Universitätsklinik der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Nürnberg
- Praxis für Chirurgie und Venentherapie, Sindelfingen
| | - A. Hesse
- Praxis für Allgemeinmedizin, Stuttgart
| | - L. Hesse
- Cand. Med. Universität Pécs, Ungarn
| | - E. Schultz
- Klinik für Dermatologie, Universitätsklinik der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Nürnberg
| | - M. Kaiser
- Klinik für Plastische, Wiederherstellende und Handchirurgie, Universitätsklinik der Paracelsus Medizinischen Privatuniversität, Nürnberg
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7
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Herbst KL, Kahn LA, Iker E, Ehrlich C, Wright T, McHutchison L, Schwartz J, Sleigh M, Donahue PM, Lisson KH, Faris T, Miller J, Lontok E, Schwartz MS, Dean SM, Bartholomew JR, Armour P, Correa-Perez M, Pennings N, Wallace EL, Larson E. Standard of care for lipedema in the United States. Phlebology 2021; 36:779-796. [PMID: 34049453 PMCID: PMC8652358 DOI: 10.1177/02683555211015887] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Background Lipedema is a loose connective tissue disease predominantly in women identified by increased nodular and fibrotic adipose tissue on the buttocks, hips and limbs that develops at times of hormone, weight and shape change including puberty, pregnancy, and menopause. Lipedema tissue may be very painful and can severely impair mobility. Non-lipedema obesity, lymphedema, venous disease, and hypermobile joints are comorbidities. Lipedema tissue is difficult to reduce by diet, exercise, or bariatric surgery. Methods This paper is a consensus guideline on lipedema written by a US committee following the Delphi Method. Consensus statements are rated for strength using the GRADE system. Results Eighty-five consensus statements outline lipedema pathophysiology, and medical, surgical, vascular, and other therapeutic recommendations. Future research topics are suggested. Conclusion These guidelines improve the understanding of the loose connective tissue disease, lipedema, to advance our understanding towards early diagnosis, treatments, and ultimately a cure for affected individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Karen L Herbst
- Department of Medicine, University of Arizona, Total Lipedema Care, Beverly Hills, CA and Tucson, AZ, USA.,The US Standard of Care Committee.,Total Lipedema Care, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Linda Anne Kahn
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Lymphatic Therapy Services, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Emily Iker
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Lymphedema Center, Santa Monica, CA, USA
| | - Chuck Ehrlich
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Lymph Notes, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Thomas Wright
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Lipedema Surgical Solutions, O' Fallon, MO, USA
| | - Lindy McHutchison
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Carolina Vein Center, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Jaime Schwartz
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Total Lipedema Care, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Molly Sleigh
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Lighthouse Lymphedema Network, Atlanta, GA, USA; Centura Health, Colorado Springs, CO, USA
| | - Paula Mc Donahue
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN, USA
| | - Kathleen H Lisson
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Solace Massage and Mindfulness, San Diego, CA, USA
| | - Tami Faris
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Independent Contractor, Kansas City, KS, USA
| | - Janis Miller
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Olathe Health, Olathe, KS, USA
| | - Erik Lontok
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Barth Syndrome Foundation, Larchmont, NY, USA
| | - Michael S Schwartz
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Pasadena Plastic Surgery, Pasadena, CA, USA
| | - Steven M Dean
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH, USA
| | | | - Polly Armour
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Fat Disorders Resource Society, Laurel, MD, USA
| | | | - Nicholas Pennings
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Campbell University School of Osteopathic Medicine, Buies Creek, NC, USA
| | - Edely L Wallace
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Yogamatrix Studio, Orlando, FL, USA
| | - Ethan Larson
- The US Standard of Care Committee.,Larson Plastic Surgery, Tucson, AZ, USA
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8
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Bertsch T, Erbacher G. Replik auf den „Letter to Editor: Series of articles by T. Bertsch and G. Erbacher culminating in Lipoedema – myths and facts, Part 5: European Best Practice of Lipoedema – Summary of the European Lipoedema Forum Consensus“. PHLEBOLOGIE 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1302-9212] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Bertsch
- Europäisches Zentrum für Lymphologie im Schwarzwald, Földiklinik
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9
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Bertsch T, Erbacher G. Erwiderung auf den Leserbrief zu Lipoedema – myths and facts Part 1 and 5. European Best Practice of Lipoedema – Summary of the European Lipoedema Consensus, Phlebologie 2020; 49: 31–49. PHLEBOLOGIE 2021. [DOI: 10.1055/a-1250-3334] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tobias Bertsch
- Europäisches Zentrum für Lymphologie, Földiklinik, Hinterzarten
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10
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Quality of life, its factors, and sociodemographic characteristics of Polish women with lipedema. BMC WOMENS HEALTH 2021; 21:27. [PMID: 33446179 PMCID: PMC7809838 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-021-01174-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2020] [Accepted: 01/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Background Lipedema is a type of subcutaneous adipose tissue disorder that affects mainly women. Its main symptom is bilateral fat accumulation on the extremities with associated pain in the affected areas. Despite growing interest in lipedema among patients and medical health professionals, lipedema is still often misdiagnosed, misunderstood, and mistreated. To promote better understanding of lipedema, we aimed to investigate factors related to the quality of life and describe selected sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of women with lipedema in Poland. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional online survey that was completed by 98 women with lipedema. The participants responded to questionnaires regarding quality of life, sociodemographic and clinical characteristics, and depression symptom severity. Results The participants reported low quality of life and high severity of depressive symptoms. The more severe the symptoms related to pain, heaviness, and swelling, the lower the quality of life. Further analyses showed that depression severity mediated this relationship. Conclusions The current study provides initial information on screening questions, lipedema symptoms, and comorbidities, pointing to the areas needing in-depth investigation. Further steps to improve quality of life in women with lipedema and to reduce health costs should include the education of medical health professionals, using diagnostic tools that allow for differentiation among diagnoses and precise health risk assessment, and creating Polish treatment guidelines for lipedema.
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11
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Amato ACM, Amato FCM, Benitti DA, Amato LGL. Development of a questionnaire and screening model for lipedema. J Vasc Bras 2020; 19:e20200114. [PMID: 34211528 PMCID: PMC8218007 DOI: 10.1590/1677-5449.200114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lipedema is greatly underdiagnosed and there is a lack of low-cost tools to facilitate diagnostic. We created a lipedema screening questionnaire based on a questionnaire for assessing symptoms. Objectives The study objectives were to identify relevant clinical questions, develop a screening questionnaire, and construct a model for predicting lipedema. Method A simplified questionnaire was constructed and administered to a sample of patients with and without lipedema and then the probability of correct diagnosis was analyzed. Results All 109 patients who answered the questionnaire were female and all of them understood the questions. A predictive model using individual question scores achieved an excellent probability of correct diagnosis, at 91.2%, and a predictive model based on total score also achieved a good probability of correct diagnosis, at 86.15%. Conclusions The lipedema screening questionnaire is a practical instrument that is quick and easy to administer and can be used with our population for identification of possible lipedema patients, raising the level of suspicion when taking a patient’s history and conducting a physical examination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Campos Moraes Amato
- Universidade Santo Amaro - UNISA, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Amato - Instituto de Medicina Avançada, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | - Lorena Guimarães Lima Amato
- Amato - Instituto de Medicina Avançada, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Universidade Nove de Julho - UNINOVE, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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12
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Amato ACM, Amato FCM, Benitti DA, Dos Santos RV. Translation, cultural adaptation, and validation of a lipedema symptoms questionnaire. J Vasc Bras 2020; 19:e20200049. [PMID: 34178078 PMCID: PMC8202216 DOI: 10.1590/1677-5449.200049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lipedema is characterized as abnormal bilateral deposition of fat in the
buttocks and legs that may be accompanied by orthostatic edema in women. A
questionnaire for assessment of lipedema symptoms has previously been
published in German and English to assess treatment progress. Objectives To translate, culturally adapt, and validate the lipedema symptoms assessment
questionnaire for Brazilian Portuguese. Methods The process involved three translations and two back-translations performed
by independent translators, followed by construction of a consensus version
and adaptation according patients’ comprehension. The questionnaire was
converted into a digital version and administered to 56 volunteers and then
administered to 154 patients from a vascular clinic and correlated with
volume determined by segmental bioimpedance. Results The 20 pre-test patients were female and at least 90% of the interviewees
were able to understand the questions in the final phase. Volunteers had a
96.4% rate of comprehension of the digital online version and a mean
completion time of 4 minutes. In 154 patients, limb volume was positively
correlated with intensity of symptoms, as assessed by the translated
questionnaire, and 3 out of 15 questions were weakly correlated with
educational level. Conclusions The translated and culturally adapted Brazilian Portuguese version of the
lipedema symptoms assessment questionnaire (QuASiL) is a practical tool that
is easy and quick to administer and can be used in our population.
Additional studies are still needed to assess the instrument’s sensitivity
as an aid for diagnosis of lipedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Campos Moraes Amato
- Universidade de Santo Amaro - UNISA, Disciplina de Cirurgia Vascular, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Amato - Instituto de Medicina Avançada, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
| | | | | | - Ricardo Virgínio Dos Santos
- Universidade de Santo Amaro - UNISA, Disciplina de Cirurgia Vascular, São Paulo, SP, Brasil.,Amato - Instituto de Medicina Avançada, São Paulo, SP, Brasil
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13
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Increased levels of VEGF-C and macrophage infiltration in lipedema patients without changes in lymphatic vascular morphology. Sci Rep 2020; 10:10947. [PMID: 32616854 PMCID: PMC7331572 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-67987-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipedema is a chronic adipose tissue disorder characterized by the disproportional subcutaneous deposition of fat and is commonly misdiagnosed as lymphedema or obesity. The molecular determinants of the lipedema remain largely unknown and only speculations exist regarding the lymphatic system involvement. The aim of the present study is to characterize the lymphatic vascular involvement in established lipedema. The histological and molecular characterization was conducted on anatomically-matched skin and fat biopsies as well as serum samples from eleven lipedema and ten BMI-matched healthy patients. Increased systemic levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)-C (P = 0.02) were identified in the serum of lipedema patients. Surprisingly, despite the increased VEGF-C levels no morphological changes of the lymphatic vessels were observed. Importantly, expression analysis of lymphatic and blood vessel-related genes revealed a marked downregulation of Tie2 (P < 0.0001) and FLT4 (VEGFR-3) (P = 0.02) consistent with an increased macrophage infiltration (P = 0.009), without changes in the expression of other lymphatic markers. Interestingly, a distinct local cytokine milieu, with decreased VEGF-A (P = 0.04) and VEGF-D (P = 0.02) expression was identified. No apparent lymphatic anomaly underlies lipedema, providing evidence for the different disease nature in comparison to lymphedema. The changes in the lymphatic-related cytokine milieu might be related to a modified vascular permeability developed secondarily to lipedema progression.
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14
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Non-contrast MR Lymphography of lipedema of the lower extremities. Magn Reson Imaging 2020; 71:115-124. [PMID: 32561380 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2020.06.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2020] [Revised: 06/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/11/2020] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
AIM To assess imaging findings and characteristics of the lymphatic system in patients affected by lipedema and lipolymphedema of the lower extremities on Non-Contrast MR Lymphography (NCMRL). MATERIALS AND METHODS 44 lower extremities in 11 consecutive female patients affected by lipedema, and 11 patients with lipolymphedema were examined by NCMRL. MR imaging was performed on 1.5-T system MR equipment. The examination consisted of one 3D short-tau inversion recovery (STIR) and one heavily T2-weighted 3D-Turbo Spin Echo (TSE) sequence. RESULTS All patients showed symmetrical enlargement of the lower extremities with increased subcutaneous fat tissue. The fat tissue was homogeneous, without any signs of edema in pure lipedema patients. In all the extremities with lipolymphedema, high signal intensity areas in the epifascial region could be detected on the 3D-TSE sequence (p < .001) with evidence of mild epifascial fluid collections (p < .001). No sign of honeycomb pattern fat appearance was observed. The appearance of the iliac lymphatic trunks was normal in both lipedema and lipolymphedema patients. Dilated peripheral lymphatics were observed in 2 patients affected by lipedema, indicating a subclinical status of lymphedema, and in 10 patients with lipolymphedema (p = .001). Signs of vascular stasis were observed in both groups, without statistically significant difference (p = .665). CONCLUSION NCMRL is a non-invasive imaging technique that is suitable for the evaluation of patients affected by lipedema and lipolymphedema, helping in the differential diagnosis.
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15
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Burchert D. [The swollen leg and clarification of bilateral leg swelling : Practical procedure in general practice]. Internist (Berl) 2020; 61:36-43. [PMID: 31848646 DOI: 10.1007/s00108-019-00708-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Swelling of soft parts of the lower extremities, whether uni- or bilateral, is a common reason for consulting a general practitioner (GP). Complex interactions mean that GPs are faced with a wide range of differential diagnoses during clarification of such findings. Of enormous importance is the prevention of a dangerous course, e.g., by initiating weight-adapted calculated antibiotic treatment, antithrombotic therapy, or even initial inpatient treatment and acute diagnostic workup in case of impending compartment syndrome or extensive venous thrombosis of the leg with or without suspicion of pulmonary embolism. Sometimes an acute venous thrombosis of the leg unmasks malignant disease. A swollen leg/swollen legs are frequently a leading symptom of decompensating heart or renal failure. Another possible cause are drug side effects, which may be exacerbated in a warm environment. An endocrine cause must also be considered in some cases. The GP is the appropriate physician for patients to contact and to initiate and coordinate diagnostics and treatment. In addition to coordination of specialist examinations, it is not infrequent that nurses and physiotherapists have to be involved in treatment, to ensure successful outpatient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dieter Burchert
- Diabetologische Schwerpunktpraxis, Römerstraße 14, 55129, Mainz, Deutschland.
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16
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Abstract
Background Lipedema is a chronic disorder presenting in women during puberty or other times of hormonal change such as childbirth or menopause, characterized by symmetric enlargement of nodular, painful subcutaneous adipose tissue (fat) in the limbs, sparing the hands, feet and trunk. Healthcare providers underdiagnose or misdiagnose lipedema as obesity or lymphedema. Materials and methods The benefits (friend) and negative aspects (foe) of lipedema were collected from published literature, discussions with women with lipedema, and institutional review board approved evaluation of medical charts of 46 women with lipedema. Results Lipedema is a foe because lifestyle change does not reduce lipedema fat, the fat is painful, can become obese, causes gait and joint abnormalities, fatigue, lymphedema and psychosocial distress. Hypermobility associated with lipedema can exacerbate joint disease and aortic disease. In contrast, lipedema fat can be a friend as it is associated with relative reductions in obesity-related metabolic dysfunction. In new data collected, lipedema was associated with a low risk of diabetes (2%), dyslipidemia (11.7%) and hypertension (13%) despite an obese average body mass index (BMI) of 35.3 ± 1.7 kg/m2. Conclusion Lipedema is a painful psychologically distressing fat disorder, more foe than friend especially due to associated obesity and lymphedema. More controlled studies are needed to study the mechanisms and treatments for lipedema.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Rita Wadeea
- TREAT Program, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
| | - Victoria Rosas
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Texas at El Paso, El Paso, TX, USA
| | - Karen L Herbst
- TREAT Program, College of Medicine, University of Arizona, Tucson, AZ, USA
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17
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Abstract
Lipedema is an uncommon disorder characterized by localized adiposity of the lower extremities, often occurring in females with a family history of the condition. The adiposity extends from hips to ankles and is typically unresponsive to weight loss. In addition to the aesthetic deformity, women also describe pain in the lower extremities, particularly with pressure, as well as easy bruising. Although the condition is well described, it is relatively rare and often misdiagnosed. The purpose of this review is to describe the initial evaluation and diagnosis of lipedema and discuss treatment options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne Warren Peled
- Private Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Practice, San Francisco, CA, USA
| | - Elisabeth A Kappos
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, Aesthetic and Hand Surgery, University Hospital, Basel, Switzerland
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18
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Halk AB, Damstra RJ. First Dutch guidelines on lipedema using the international classification of functioning, disability and health. Phlebology 2016; 32:152-159. [DOI: 10.1177/0268355516639421] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Introduction Lipedema is a chronic, progressive condition that can result in considerable disability. In 2011, the Dutch Society of Dermatology and Venereology organized a task force to create guidelines on lipedema, using the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health of the World Health Organization. Guideline development Clinical questions on significant issues in lipedema care were proposed, involving (1) making the diagnosis of lipedema; (2) clinimetric measurements for early detection and adequate follow-up; and (3) treatment. A systematic review of literature published up to June 2013 was conducted. Based on available evidence and experience of the task force, answers were formed and recommendations were stated. The guidelines define criteria to make a medical diagnosis of lipedema, a minimum data set of (repeated) clinical measurements that should be used to ensure early detection and an individually outlined follow-up plan, pillars on which conservative treatment should be based and recommendations on surgical treatment options. Conclusions Little consistent information concerning either diagnostics or therapy can be found in the literature. It is likely that lipedema is frequently misdiagnosed or wrongly diagnosed as only an aesthetic problem and therefore under- or mis-treated. Treatment is divided into conservative and chirurgic treatment. The only available technique to correct the abnormal adipose tissue is surgery. Recommendations To ensure early detection and an individually outlined follow-up, the committee advises the use of a minimum data set of (repeated) measurements of waist circumference, circumference of involved limbs, body mass index and scoring of the level of daily practice and psychosocial distress. Promotion of a healthy lifestyle with individually adjusted weight control measures, graded activity training programs, edema reduction, and other supportive measures are pillars of conservative therapy. Tumescent liposuction is the treatment of choice for patients with a suitable health profile and/or inadequate response to conservative and supportive measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne B Halk
- Department of Dermatology, Leiden University Medical Centre (LUMC), The Netherlands
| | - Robert J Damstra
- Dutch Expertise Centre of Lympho-vascular Medicine, Hospital Nij Smellinghe, Drachten, The Netherlands
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19
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Goodliffe JM, Ormerod JOM, Beale A, Ramcharitar S. An under-diagnosed cause of leg swelling. BMJ Case Rep 2013; 2013:bcr-2013-009538. [PMID: 23709549 DOI: 10.1136/bcr-2013-009538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022] Open
Abstract
A grossly obese woman was wrongly diagnosed throughout her adult life of having lymphoedema. Her condition was subsequently confirmed as lipoedema, an entirely different condition, which is noted in medical text books but is seldom taught to medical students or to general practitioners. The condition is caused by abnormal deposition of adipose tissue in the extremities (usually the lower limbs) and almost exclusively affects women. It often starts at puberty or may occur after pregnancy. The exact aetiology is not yet understood but genetic and hormonal factors may be implicated. The problem is that misdiagnosis leads to inappropriate tests and improper treatment to the patient. When recognised it is often too late to do anything for the patient and they become highly dependent on social care. This case describes how the diagnosis can be confirmed through an ultrasound image and illustrates the need for early recognition to facilitate specialist care.
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