New Characterization of Lipedema Stages: Focus on Pain, Water, Fat and Skeletal Muscle
Resource type
Authors/contributors
- Al-Ghadban, Sara (Author)
- Evancio, Jane V. (Author)
- Alfiscar, Paula E. F. (Author)
- Herbst, Karen L. (Author)
Title
New Characterization of Lipedema Stages: Focus on Pain, Water, Fat and Skeletal Muscle
Abstract
Lipedema is a chronic, progressive adipose connective tissue disorder characterized by symmetrical, disproportionate fat accumulation, typically affecting the lower extremities and arms, accompanied by pain, swelling, and a sensation of heaviness. This study introduces intermediate Stages 1.5 and 2.5 to the established lipedema classification (Stages 1, 2 and 3), and other affected areas, based on physical examination, a questionnaire, and photographic documentation. Bioelectrical Impedance Spectroscopy (BIS) was employed to quantify total body water (TBW) across stages. A significant and linear increase in BMI was observed from Stage 1 to 3, correlating with increased reported pain and heaviness in the thighs, calves, and upper arms. Systemic symptoms of brain fog, debilitating fatigue, and hypothermia were significantly prevalent. TBW demonstrated a significant, stage-dependent increase in the lower extremities. Adipose tissue accumulation over the knees and feet significantly increased with lipedema stage. In contrast, shin involvement was evident in early stages and remained consistently elevated throughout later stages. Skeletal Muscle Mass (SMM) exhibited a significant increase across lipedema stages, positively correlating with fat mass (FM) in Stage 3. This study elucidates previously underrecognized clinical features and distribution patterns of lipedema, offering a refined staging system to improve understanding of its progression and burden.
Publication
Life
Volume
15
Issue
9
Pages
1397
Date
2025/9
Journal Abbr
Life
Language
en
ISSN
2075-1729
Short Title
New Characterization of Lipedema Stages
Accessed
9/8/25, 5:15 PM
Library Catalog
Extra
Publisher: Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute
Citation
Al-Ghadban, S., Evancio, J. V., Alfiscar, P. E. F., & Herbst, K. L. (2025). New Characterization of Lipedema Stages: Focus on Pain, Water, Fat and Skeletal Muscle. Life, 15(9), 1397. https://doi.org/10.3390/life15091397
Publication
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