Lipedema

Lipedema is a condition where there is abnormal, increased deposition of adipose tissue in the subcutaneous tissues. This distinct clinical entity was initially described by Allen and Hines, affecting the lower limbs. The longstanding and progressive nature of this disease condition often results in discomfort, pain, and disfiguration, which can affect an individual’s quality of life.There is a preponderance of women compared to men and most frequently affecting the age groups from puberty to mid-30s. Lipedema can affect both lower and upper limbs (in 30% of cases) with symmetrical bilateral distribution. One particular distinguishing feature is sparing of the hands and feet which is seen in lipedema as compared to lymphedema. Due to the misdiagnosis of lipedema as obesity or lymphedema, the true prevalence is significantly under-reported. Although the precise prevalence is evasive, it is estimated that 1 in 10 women can develop lipedema.As such by the time the diagnosis has been obtained, chronic irreversible changes such as pain, tightness, bruising tendency are already present, which result in significant challenges to effective treatment.