Lipodystrophy

Lipodystrophy is a group of disorders characterized by selective loss of subcutaneous adipose tissue, either partial or generalized, acquired or inherited. Consequences: leptin deficiency, severe insulin resistance, diabetes, dyslipidemia, hepatic steatosis, and hyperphagia. Acquired forms: HIV protease-inhibitor-associated, insulin-injection-site, and Barraquer-Simons. Congenital forms: Berardinelli-Seip. Treatment: metreleptin (leptin replacement) in generalized forms, metformin/insulin, lipid control, and liver care.

Common Symptoms

Loss of subcutaneous fat; muscular/veiny appearance; insulin resistance; diabetes; dyslipidemia; hepatic steatosis; hyperphagia

Causes and Pathogenesis

Selective loss of adipose tissue causes leptin deficiency and ectopic fat deposition, driving severe insulin resistance and metabolic complications.

Treatment

Metreleptin replacement (generalized); metformin/insulin; lipid-lowering; manage hepatic steatosis

Preventive Measures

Rotate insulin injection sites; manage HIV therapy; family screening in congenital forms.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Endocrinology department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.