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Ricolfi L, Reverdito V, Gabriele G, Bortolon M, Macherelli I, Haag P, De Santis N, Guerriero M, Patton L. Micromassage Compression Leggings Associated with Physical Exercise: Pilot Study and Example of Evaluation of the Clinical and Instrumental Effectiveness of Conservative Treatment in Lipedema. Life (Basel) 2024; 14:854. [PMID: 39063608 PMCID: PMC11278218 DOI: 10.3390/life14070854] [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: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/24/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024] Open
Abstract
We evaluated the effect of compression leggings with micromassage in association with physical activity on women with lipedema, not previously treated and without recent changes in body weight. The treatment resulted in an improvement in all subjective parameters, in spontaneous and evoked pain, in the volume of the limbs, in the absence of significant changes in body weight, and regardless of the duration of use, age, years of illness, the clinical stage, and body mass index (BMI). Evoked pain did not improve in areas affected by untreated lipedema; foot circumferences did not increase. We found a significant reduction in the thickness of subcutaneous adipose tissue (SAT) and skin evaluated in multiple points of the lower limb. Micromassage compression leggings are proposed as an integral part of conservative treatment. A method is proposed for the clinical evaluation of evoked pain, called the Progressive Pain Check (PPC), which allows for the calculation of a numerical score called the Ricolfi-Patton Score (RPS) and for the ultrasound evaluation of tissues. The method is simple and repeatable and allows for completion of the clinical evaluation of the patient at diagnosis and for an evaluation of the effects of various treatments, even applied to just one side of the body.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorenzo Ricolfi
- Endocrinology and Lymphology Clinic, 38096 Vallelaghi, TN, Italy;
| | | | - Guido Gabriele
- Department of Medical Biotechnology, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, SI, Italy;
| | - Micaela Bortolon
- Rehabilitation Unit and Lymphology Clinic, Institute San Gregorio, 31049 Valdobbiadene, TV, Italy;
| | | | - Piero Haag
- MH Fisio, 00159 Roma, RM, Italy; (I.M.); (P.H.)
| | - Nicoletta De Santis
- Clinical Research Unit, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024 Verona, VR, Italy; (N.D.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Massimo Guerriero
- Clinical Research Unit, IRCCS Sacro Cuore Don Calabria Hospital, 37024 Verona, VR, Italy; (N.D.S.); (M.G.)
| | - Laura Patton
- Endocrinology and Lymphology Clinic, 38096 Vallelaghi, TN, Italy;
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Lundanes J, Sandnes F, Gjeilo KH, Hansson P, Salater S, Martins C, Nymo S. Effect of a low-carbohydrate diet on pain and quality of life in female patients with lipedema: a randomized controlled trial. Obesity (Silver Spring) 2024; 32:1071-1082. [PMID: 38627016 DOI: 10.1002/oby.24026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/30/2023] [Revised: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/29/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The primary objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of a low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) compared with a control diet on pain in female patients with lipedema. The secondary objectives were to compare the impact of the two diets on quality of life (QoL) and investigate potential associations of changes in pain with changes in body weight, body composition, and ketosis. METHODS Adult female patients with lipedema and obesity were randomized to either the LCD or control diet (energy prescription: 1200 kcal/day) for 8 weeks. Body weight and body composition, pain (Brief Pain Inventory measured pain), and QoL (RAND 36-Item Health Survey [RAND-36], Impact of Weight on Quality of Life [IWQOL]-Lite, and Lymphoedema Quality of Life [LYMQOL]) were measured at baseline and at postintervention. RESULTS A total of 70 female patients (age, mean [SD], 47 [11] years; BMI 37 [5] kg/m2) were included. The LCD group had greater weight loss (-2.8 kg; 95% CI: -4.1 to -1.0; p < 0.001) and larger reduction in pain now (-1.1; 95% CI: -1.9 to -0.3; p = 0.009) compared with the control group. No association was found between changes in pain now and weight loss. Both groups experienced improvements in several QoL dimensions. CONCLUSIONS Diet-induced weight loss in women with lipedema can improve QoL. An energy-restricted LCD seems to be superior to a standard control diet in reducing pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julianne Lundanes
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Clinic of Surgery, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Namsos Hospital, Namsos, Norway
| | - Frida Sandnes
- Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Nutrition and Speech-Language Therapy, Clinic of Rehabilitation, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Kari Hanne Gjeilo
- Clinic of Cardiology, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Public Health and Nursing, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Patrik Hansson
- Department of Clinical Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Department of Food and Nutrition and Sport Science, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Sissel Salater
- Regional Center for Obesity Research and Innovation (ObeCe), Department of Surgery, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Catia Martins
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Regional Center for Obesity Research and Innovation (ObeCe), Department of Surgery, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
- Department of Nutrition Sciences, University of Alabama at Birmingham (UAB), Birmingham, Alabama, USA
| | - Siren Nymo
- Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, Trondheim, Norway
- Clinic of Surgery, Nord-Trøndelag Hospital Trust, Namsos Hospital, Namsos, Norway
- Regional Center for Obesity Research and Innovation (ObeCe), Department of Surgery, St. Olavs Hospital, Trondheim University Hospital, Trondheim, Norway
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Keith L, Seo C, Wahi MM, Huggins S, Carmody M, Faerber G, Forner-Cordero I, Michelini S, Rapprich S, Rockson SG. Proposed Framework for Research Case Definitions of Lipedema. Lymphat Res Biol 2024; 22:93-105. [PMID: 38546398 PMCID: PMC11044873 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2023.0062] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/19/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Our aim is to propose a framework for the development of a research case definition of lipedema, based on current available literature and those observations that can be applied to future lipedema research with the intent to standardize and strengthen the scientific evidence base. Methods and Results: We conducted a narrative review of the literature, and identified consensus characteristics and disputed characteristics that could be included in a research case definition of lipedema. After considering the strength of the evidence and how each characteristic might be measured in a research study, we recommended an approach for the development of a research case definition of lipedema that would be based on consideration of five agreed-upon characteristics, and five disputed, or less substantiated, characteristics as additional evidence to enhance specificity. Conclusions: We present a case definition framework for lipedema drawn from the scientific literature that can be applied to future studies on lipedema. Utilizing this framework should help to increase the sensitivity and specificity of case definition and provide an opportunity for meta-analysis of clinical studies and facilitate future research intercomparisons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslyn Keith
- Lipedema Project, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Catherine Seo
- Lipedema Project, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Lipedema Simplified, LLC, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | - Siobhan Huggins
- Lipedema Project, Inc., Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Lipedema Simplified, LLC, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | - Matthew Carmody
- Lipedema Simplified, LLC, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
- Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
| | | | | | | | | | - Stanley G. Rockson
- Stanford Center for Lymphatic and Venous Disorders, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, California, USA
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Cagliyan Turk A, Erden E, Eker Buyuksireci D, Umaroglu M, Borman P. Prevalence of Fibromyalgia Syndrome in Women with Lipedema and Its Effect on Anxiety, Depression, and Quality of Life. Lymphat Res Biol 2024; 22:2-7. [PMID: 38127646 DOI: 10.1089/lrb.2023.0038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Background/Aim: The aim of this study was to determine the frequency of fibromyalgia syndrome (FMS) in patients with lipedema and to evaluate the effects of FMS on anxiety, depression, and quality of life (QoL) in this patient group. Methods: Patients with lipedema were invited to participate in a Survey-Monkey questionnaire (according to inclusion and exclusion criteria) that was announced on the facebook page of the lipedema patient community. The demographic and clinical properties, including age, body mass index (BMI), education, marital status, and types and stage of lipedema, were collected. Presence of fibromyalgia was assessed by the questions based on American College of Rheumatology 2016 FMS diagnostic criteria. The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Short Form-12 (SF-12) were used to assess the anxiety and depression, and QoL respectively. The demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as anxiety/depression level and QoL of lipedema patients were evaluated in regard to the presence (Group 1) and absence (Group 2) of FMS. Results: A total of 354 participants with a mean age of 43.18 ± 9.53 years and BMI of 30.61 ± 6.86 were included. The majority of them were married and had university education. Most of the patients had types 1, 2 and commonly stages 1 and 2 lipedema. One hundred twenty-four patients (35%) satisfied FMS criteria. The demographic characteristics except pain intensity were similar between the groups. The mean anxiety and depression scores of Group 1 were significantly higher compared with Group 2 (13.11 ± 4.2 vs. 9.87 ± 4.65, 10.23 ± 3.79 vs. 8.26 ± 4.15, respectively, p < 0.001). The mental and physical subgroup scores of SF-12 (35.37 ± 8.59 vs. 42.55 ± 10.15, 35.27 ± 8.49 vs. 40.38 ± 11.36, respectively) were significantly lower in Group 1 than in Group 2 (p < 0.001). Conclusion: More than every 3 lipedema patient may have FMS. This comorbidity may increase depression and anxiety, and impair QoL. Therefore, FMS must be kept in mind especially in the assessment of painful lipedema patients to decrease anxiety/depression and enhance the QoL of them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayla Cagliyan Turk
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey
| | - Ender Erden
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey
| | - Dilek Eker Buyuksireci
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Faculty of Medicine, Hitit University, Corum, Turkey
| | - Mutlu Umaroglu
- Institutional Big Data Management Coordination Office, Middle East Technical University, Ankara, Turkey
| | - Pinar Borman
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Ankara City Hospital, University of Health Sciences, Ankara, Turkey
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de Oliveira J. Lipedema: a new phenomenon for many people and a new field of study for psychiatry, nutrition, and psychology in Brazil. REVISTA DA ASSOCIACAO MEDICA BRASILEIRA (1992) 2023; 70:e20231074. [PMID: 38126452 PMCID: PMC10729668 DOI: 10.1590/1806-9282.20231074] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/27/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Jônatas de Oliveira
- Universidade de Sao Paulo, Faculty of Medicine, School of Medicine – Sao Paulo (SP), Brazil
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Verde L, Camajani E, Annunziata G, Sojat A, Marina LV, Colao A, Caprio M, Muscogiuri G, Barrea L. Ketogenic Diet: A Nutritional Therapeutic Tool for Lipedema? Curr Obes Rep 2023; 12:529-543. [PMID: 37924422 DOI: 10.1007/s13679-023-00536-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review aims to provide an overview of the current evidence on the efficacy, also considering the anti-inflammatory properties and safety of very low-calorie ketogenic diet (VLCKD) as a potential treatment for lipedema, particularly in the context of obesity. RECENT FINDINGS Lipedema is a chronic disease characterized by abnormal and painful fat buildup on the legs and/or arms. It is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema. However, although lipedema and obesity can coexist, unlike obesity, lipedema usually affects the legs and thighs without affecting the feet or hands, and the abnormal deposition of adipose tissue in lipedema is painful. The current lifestyle interventions are often unsuccessful in the management of lipedema. There is no consensus on the most effective nutritional approach for managing lipedema. Recent studies have suggested that VLCKD may be an effective treatment for lipedema, demonstrating that it is also superior to other nutritional approaches such as Mediterranean diet or intermittent fasting. Lipedema is a chronic and debilitating disease characterized by abnormal and painful accumulation of adipose tissue in the legs. VLCKD has been shown to be an effective treatment for lipedema, especially in the context of obesity, due to its anti-inflammatory properties. However, further research is needed to determine the long-term safety and efficacy of VLCKD as a treatment for lipedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Verde
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Centro Italiano per la cura e il Benessere del Paziente con Obesità (C.I.B.O), Unità di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia e Andrologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Camajani
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, 00166, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Annunziata
- Department of Experimental Medicine, Luigi Vanvitelli University of Campania, Naples, Italy
| | - Antoanstefan Sojat
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Ljiljana V Marina
- Department for Obesity, Metabolic and Reproductive Disorders, Clinic for Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolic Diseases, University Clinical Centre of Serbia, Belgrade, Serbia
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Centro Italiano per la cura e il Benessere del Paziente con Obesità (C.I.B.O), Unità di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia e Andrologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Diabetologia ed Andrologia, Unità di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy
- Cattedra Unesco "Educazione Alla Salute E Allo Sviluppo Sostenibile", University Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Caprio
- Department of Human Sciences and Promotion of the Quality of Life, San Raffaele Roma Open University, 00166, Rome, Italy
- Laboratory of Cardiovascular Endocrinology, IRCCS San Raffaele, Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanna Muscogiuri
- Centro Italiano per la cura e il Benessere del Paziente con Obesità (C.I.B.O), Unità di Endocrinologia, Diabetologia e Andrologia, Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Università degli Studi di Napoli Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
- Dipartimento di Medicina Clinica e Chirurgia, Diabetologia ed Andrologia, Unità di Endocrinologia, Università Federico II, Via Sergio Pansini 5, 80131, Naples, Italy.
- Cattedra Unesco "Educazione Alla Salute E Allo Sviluppo Sostenibile", University Federico II, Naples, Italy.
| | - Luigi Barrea
- Dipartimento di Scienze Umanistiche, Università Telematica Pegaso, Centro Direzionale, Via Porzio, Isola F2, 80143, Naples, Italy
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Ernst AM, Steiner M, Kainz V, Tempfer H, Spitzer G, Plank T, Bauer HC, Bresgen N, Habenbacher A, Bauer H, Lipp AT. Lipedema: The Use of Cultured Adipocytes for Identification of Diagnostic Markers. Plast Reconstr Surg 2023; 152:1036-1046. [PMID: 36912938 DOI: 10.1097/prs.0000000000010392] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lipedema, diagnosed most often in women, is a progressive disease characterized by the disproportionate and symmetrical distribution of adipose tissue, primarily in the extremities. Although numerous results from in vitro and in vivo studies have been published, many questions regarding the pathology and genetic background of lipedema remain unanswered. METHODS In this study, adipose tissue-derived stromal/stem cells were isolated from lipoaspirates derived from nonobese and obese donors with or without lipedema. Growth and morphology, metabolic activity, differentiation potential, and gene expression were evaluated using quantification of lipid accumulation, metabolic activity assay, live-cell imaging, reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction, quantitative polymerase chain reaction, and immunocytochemical staining. RESULTS The adipogenic potential of lipedema and nonlipedema adipose tissue-derived stromal/stem cells did not rise in parallel with the donors' body mass index and did not differ significantly between groups. However, in vitro differentiated adipocytes from nonobese lipedema donors showed significant upregulation of adipogenic gene expression compared with nonobese controls. All other genes tested were expressed equally in lipedema and nonlipedema adipocytes. The adiponectin/leptin ratio was significantly reduced in adipocytes from obese lipedema donors compared with their nonobese lipedema counterparts. Increased stress fiber-integrated smooth muscle actin was visible in lipedema adipocytes compared with nonlipedema controls and appeared enhanced in adipocytes from obese lipedema donors. CONCLUSIONS Not only lipedema per se but also body mass index of donors affect adipogenic gene expression substantially in vitro. The significantly reduced adiponectin/leptin ratio and the increased occurrence of myofibroblast-like cells in obese lipedema adipocyte cultures underscores the importance of attention to the co-occurrence of lipedema and obesity. These are important findings toward accurate diagnosis of lipedema. CLINICAL RELEVANCE STATEMENT Our study highlights not only the difficulty in lipedema diagnostics but also the tremendous need for further studies on lipedema tissue. Although lipedema might seem to be an underestimated field in plastic and reconstructive surgery, the power it holds to provide better treatment to future patients can not be promoted enough.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna M Ernst
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
| | - Marianne Steiner
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
| | - Verena Kainz
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
| | - Herbert Tempfer
- Institute of Tendon and Bone Regeneration, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Centre Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration
| | - Gabriel Spitzer
- Institute of Tendon and Bone Regeneration, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Centre Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration
| | - Tanja Plank
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
| | - Hans-Christian Bauer
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
- Institute of Tendon and Bone Regeneration, Spinal Cord Injury and Tissue Regeneration Centre Salzburg, Paracelsus Medical University Salzburg
- Austrian Cluster for Tissue Regeneration
| | - Nikolaus Bresgen
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
| | - Andreas Habenbacher
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich
| | - Hannelore Bauer
- From the Department of Biosciences, Paris Lodron University of Salzburg
| | - Anna-Theresa Lipp
- Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich
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Bouillon VN, Hinson CS, Hu M, Brooks RM. Management of Lipedema Beyond Liposuction: A Case Study. Aesthet Surg J Open Forum 2023; 5:ojad088. [PMID: 37811191 PMCID: PMC10559941 DOI: 10.1093/asjof/ojad088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipedema is a pathologic accumulation of adipose tissue in the subcutaneous layer of the extremities. This connective tissue disorder, which predominately affects females, is often misdiagnosed despite an incidence of ∼11%. Misdiagnosis often leads to delays in appropriate treatment, further increasing the morbidity of the condition. The authors report their facilities' experience in treating a patient with lipedema, requiring multiple surgical interventions involving liposuction and skin debulking to achieve desired aesthetic outcomes. The patient presented to the plastic surgery clinic with severe lipedema of the bilateral lower extremities. She previously underwent a panniculectomy and bilateral lower extremity liposuction without achieving the desired aesthetic results. Prior conservative management and liposuction alone were both unsuccessful treatment options and she required debulking procedures, along with further liposuction, as definitive management. The patient underwent 2 procedures at the clinic, both consisting of liposuction and panniculectomy of the lower extremities and buttocks. The procedures were conducted 1 year apart but were able to achieve the patient's desired aesthetics goals. Management of lipedema can be challenging, but not impossible. This case report shows that local excision is a viable option for treatment if minimally invasive options yield limited results. Level of Evidence 5
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chandler S Hinson
- Corresponding Author: Mr Chandler S. Hinson, 258 Jackson Blvd, Mobile, AL 36609, USA. E-mail: ; X: @chandlerhinson_
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van la Parra RFD, Deconinck C, Pirson G, Servaes M, Fosseprez P. Lipedema: What we don't know. J Plast Reconstr Aesthet Surg 2023; 84:302-312. [PMID: 37390539 DOI: 10.1016/j.bjps.2023.05.056] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/14/2023] [Indexed: 07/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Lipedema is a loose connective tissue disease characterized by a disproportionate accumulation of adipose tissue in the limbs of women. Despite its incidence of 10-20%, lipedema is often underdiagnosed and misdiagnosed. OBJECTIVES This review aims to outline current, available evidence regarding this enigmatic syndrome and gives a synopsis of the subjects that are still unknown. MATERIALS AND METHODS PubMed and Embase searches were conducted to identify relevant articles on lipedema pathophysiology, clinical presentation, diagnosis, and treatment. RESULTS Lipedema can be considered a disease of the adipocytes or a circulatory disorder of the lymphatics. The relationship between lymphatics and adipose tissue remains controversial. The clinical distinction between lipedema, lymphedema, phlebolymphedema, and lipolymphedema can be difficult. Diagnoses often coexist, further complicating the diagnosis of lipedema, which is currently made on clinical grounds alone. The value of diagnostic imaging studies is unclear. Liposuction appears to be an effective treatment and significantly improves symptoms. CONCLUSION Diagnosing lipedema remains a challenge due to its heterogeneous presentation, co-existing diseases, and lack of objective diagnostic imaging. Further directions for research include the effect of excess skin resection surgery on lymphatic drainage.
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Affiliation(s)
- R F D van la Parra
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium.
| | - C Deconinck
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - G Pirson
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - M Servaes
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
| | - Ph Fosseprez
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive, and Aesthetic Surgery, CHU UCL Namur, Université Catholique de Louvain, Belgium
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10
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Kodim A, Wollina U. [Microcannular liposuction in tumescent anesthesia in lipedema patients: an analysis of 519 liposuctions]. Wien Med Wochenschr 2023; 173:290-298. [PMID: 37314596 DOI: 10.1007/s10354-023-01017-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/11/2023] [Accepted: 05/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This is a retrospective analysis of all lipedema patients treated by tumescent liposuction at our department in the years 2007-2021: We performed 519 liposuctions in 178 patients with a mean age of 45 ± 15.5 years. By the stage of lipedema the mean age increased significantly, what underlines the concept of lipedema as a chronic progressive disorder. Three-thirds of patients reported at least one comorbidity. The most common were arterial hypertension (32.58%), obesity (24.16%), and hypothyroidism (20.79%). We removed a mean lipoaspirate volume of 4905 ± 2800 mL. A major target for treatment is pain reduction. All patients reported at least a 50% pain reduction after liposuction, while 96 achieved a pain reduction ≥ 90%. The pre-operative pain intensity (p = 0.000) and the lipedema stage (p = 0.032) exerted a significant impact on absolute pain reduction. There was no association of pain reduction to volume loss. The post-operative rate of adverse events was 2.89%. Liposuction in tumescent anesthesia is an effective and safe method to reduce both pain and volume in patients with lipedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alicia Kodim
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus, Dresden, Deutschland, 01067
| | - Uwe Wollina
- Klinik für Dermatologie und Allergologie, Städtisches Klinikum Dresden, Akademisches Lehrkrankenhaus, Dresden, Deutschland, 01067.
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Aitzetmüller-Klietz ML, Busch L, Hamatschek M, Paul M, Schriek C, Wiebringhaus P, Aitzetmüller-Klietz M, Kückelhaus M, Hirsch T. Understanding the Vicious Circle of Pain, Physical Activity, and Mental Health in Lipedema Patients-A Response Surface Analysis. J Clin Med 2023; 12:5319. [PMID: 37629361 PMCID: PMC10455654 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12165319] [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: 07/10/2023] [Revised: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Lipedema is a widespread disease with painful accumulations of subcutaneous fat in the legs and arms. Often, obesity co-occurs. Many patients suffer from impairment in mobility and mental health. Obesity and mental health in turn can be positively influenced by physical activity. In this study, we aimed to examine the interrelations between pain and physical activity on mental health in lipedema patients. In total, 511 female lipedema patients (age M = 40.16 ± 12.45 years, BMI M = 33.86 ± 7.80 kg/m2) filled in questionnaires measuring pain, physical activity, and mental health (PHQ-9; WHOQOL-BREF with subscales mental, physical, social, environmental, and overall health). Response surface analyses were calculated via R statistics. The explained variance was high for the model predicting depression severity (R2 = 0.18, p < 0.001) and physical health (R2 = 0.30, p < 0.001). Additive incongruence effects of pain and physical activity on depression severity, mental, physical, and overall health were found (all p < 0.001). In our study, physical activity and pain synergistically influenced physical, mental, and overall health. The pain not only led to low mental health but also interfered with the valuable potential of engaging in physical activity in lipedema patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie-Luise Aitzetmüller-Klietz
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Lena Busch
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Academy for Diagnostics and Prevention, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Matthias Hamatschek
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Matthias Paul
- Academy for Diagnostics and Prevention, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Department of Cardiovascular Medicine, Division Steinfurt, University Hospital Muenster, 48565 Steinfurt, Germany
| | - Carsten Schriek
- Academy for Diagnostics and Prevention, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Philipp Wiebringhaus
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Matthias Aitzetmüller-Klietz
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Maximilian Kückelhaus
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
| | - Tobias Hirsch
- Department of Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, Hand Surgery, Fachklinik Hornheide, 48157 Muenster, Germany
- Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Institute of Musculoskeletal Medicine, Westfalian Wilhelms-University, 48149 Muenster, Germany
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, Department of Trauma, Hand and Reconstructive Surgery, University Hospital Muenster, 48149 Muenster, Germany
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Andersson MLE, Thorén E, Sylwander C, Bergman S. Associations between chronic widespread pain, pressure pain thresholds, leptin, and metabolic factors in individuals with knee pain. BMC Musculoskelet Disord 2023; 24:639. [PMID: 37559026 PMCID: PMC10410998 DOI: 10.1186/s12891-023-06773-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 08/02/2023] [Indexed: 08/11/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The aim was to study associations between chronic widespread pain, widespread pain sensitivity, leptin, and metabolic factors in individuals with knee pain. A secondary aim was to study these associations in a subgroup of individuals with normal BMI. METHOD This cross-sectional study included 265 individuals. The participants were categorised into three different pain groups: Chronic widespread pain (CWP), chronic regional pain (ChRP), or no chronic pain (NCP). The pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) were assessed using computerised pressure algometry. Low PPTs were defined as having PPTs in the lowest third of all tender points. Leptin and metabolic factors such as BMI, visceral fat area (VFA), lipids, and glucose were also assessed. RESULT Sixteen per cent reported CWP, 15% had low PPTs, and 4% fulfilled both criteria. Those who fulfilled the criteria for CWP were more often women, more obese, and had increased leptin levels. In logistic regression, adjusted for age and gender, leptin was associated with fulfilling criteria for CWP, OR 1.015 (95% CI 1.004-1.027, p = 0.008). In logistic regression, adjusted for age and gender, leptin was associated with low PPTs, OR 1.016 (95% CI 1.004-1.029, p = 0.012). Leptin was also associated with fulfilling both criteria, adjusted for age, sex, and visceral fat area (VFA), OR 1.030 (95% CI 1.001-1.060), p = 0.040. CONCLUSION Leptin was associated with fulfilling the combined criteria for chronic widespread pain and low PPTs, even after adjusting for the visceral fat area (VFA). Longitudinal studies are needed to study the causal relationships between leptin and the development of widespread pain. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT04928170.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria L E Andersson
- Spenshult Research and Development Centre, Halmstad, Sweden.
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Section of Rheumatology, Lund University, Lund, Sweden.
- School of Business, Engineering and Science, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden.
| | - Emelie Thorén
- Spenshult Research and Development Centre, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Sylwander
- Spenshult Research and Development Centre, Halmstad, Sweden
- School of Health and Welfare, Halmstad University, Halmstad, Sweden
| | - Stefan Bergman
- Spenshult Research and Development Centre, Halmstad, Sweden
- Primary Health Care Unit, Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Department of Medicine, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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13
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Vitorasso CDSR, Silva ACB, Batista BPDSN, Kamamoto F. Lymphatic Improvement after Suction-assisted Lipectomy in a Lipedema Patient. PLASTIC AND RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY-GLOBAL OPEN 2023; 11:e5097. [PMID: 37351118 PMCID: PMC10284327 DOI: 10.1097/gox.0000000000005097] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/10/2023] [Indexed: 06/24/2023]
Abstract
Lipedema is a chronic and progressive disease that may compromise lymphatic function. Although suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL) is considered a safe treatment for lipedema patients, the lymphatic repercussions of this surgical procedure are not fully understood. There is not enough evidence to support the role of SAL in lymphatic function treatment in lipedema. Here, we report a case of lymphatic drainage improvement after lipedema treatment with SAL. Tumescent SAL was performed in the deep subcutaneous layer, preserving the superficial and muscular lymphatic vessels. Pre- and postsurgical lymphoscintigraphy was equally documented under the Genoa protocol. A 34-year-old female patient presented with painful enlargement of the arms and lower limbs caused by lipedema. The patient had undergone conservative treatment with mild improvement in pain and heaviness. Lymphoscintigraphy showed slowed radiotracer progression on the left lower limb, collateral and tortuous lymphatic vessels on the right lower limb, and exuberant radiopharmaceutical concentration on the inguinal chain. Nine months after SAL was performed, the patient underwent another lymphoscintigraphy, which exhibited normalized radiopharmaceutical progression time and normal and symmetrical lymphatic vessel patterns. Collateral lymphatic paths and tortuosity vessels were no longer identified. Furthermore, the patient reported significant improvement in pain and the limb's appearance. Tumescent SAL is not only efficient and safe in treating lipedema, but may also be responsible for improvement in lymphatic drainage in lipedema patients. Additional prospective studies are fundamental to reinforce the current evidence and possibly yield predicting information about the tumescent liposuction eligibility in the improvement of lymphatic drainage.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Fábio Kamamoto
- From the Plastic Surgery Department, Instituto Lipedema Brasil, Sao Paulo, Brazil
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14
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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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15
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Kloosterman LM, Hendrickx A, Scafoglieri A, Jager-Wittenaar H, Dekker R. Functioning of People with Lipoedema According to All Domains of the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health: A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1989. [PMID: 36767355 PMCID: PMC9915552 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20031989] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Revised: 01/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/19/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Lipoedema is a painful non-pitting diffuse "fatty" swelling, usually confined to the legs, that occurs mainly in women. This scoping review aimed to provide an overview of the available research on the functioning of people with lipoedema, according to the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) framework. Relevant publications and gray literature were retrieved until October 2022. The results sections of each publication were organized using a thematic framework approach. All included studies reported at least one outcome fitting within the domains of body functions and body structures, with most studies focusing on the categories of "sensation of pain", "immunological system functions", and "weight maintenance functions". The ICF domains of activities and participation and environmental factors were mentioned in a small number of the included studies (17 and 13%, respectively), while the domain of personal factors was studied in half of the included studies. In conclusion, the emphasis of lipoedema research is on its description from a disorder-oriented point of view in the form of body functions and body structures, with a lack of information about the other domains of functioning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lise Maren Kloosterman
- Research Group Healthy Ageing, Allied Health Care and Nursing, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, 9714 CA Groningen, The Netherlands
- FAITH Research, 9714 CA Groningen, The Netherlands
- Center of Expertise for Lymphovascular Medicine, Nij Smellinghe Hospital, Compagnonsplein 1, 9202 NN Drachten, The Netherlands
- Experimental Anatomy Research Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Ad Hendrickx
- Research Group Healthy Ageing, Allied Health Care and Nursing, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, 9714 CA Groningen, The Netherlands
- FAITH Research, 9714 CA Groningen, The Netherlands
- Center of Expertise for Lymphovascular Medicine, Nij Smellinghe Hospital, Compagnonsplein 1, 9202 NN Drachten, The Netherlands
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Health Psychology, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Aldo Scafoglieri
- Experimental Anatomy Research Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
| | - Harriët Jager-Wittenaar
- Research Group Healthy Ageing, Allied Health Care and Nursing, Hanze University of Applied Sciences, 9714 CA Groningen, The Netherlands
- FAITH Research, 9714 CA Groningen, The Netherlands
- Experimental Anatomy Research Department, Vrije Universiteit Brussel, 1090 Brussels, Belgium
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Rienk Dekker
- University of Groningen, University Medical Center Groningen, Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, 9700 RB Groningen, The Netherlands
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Czerwińska M, Teodorczyk J, Spychała D, Hansdorfer-Korzon R. The Usefulness of the Application of Compression Therapy among Lipedema Patients-Pilot Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:914. [PMID: 36673666 PMCID: PMC9859460 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20020914] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Revised: 12/29/2022] [Accepted: 12/31/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Although lipedema has gained more interest among researchers, specific treatment methods are still unknown. This study aims to identify the effects of compression therapy combined with exercises compared to exercising only. Moreover, the aim is to assess the methodology and outcome measurements before conducting a larger study. (2) Methods: Six women with lipedema were enrolled in the study; three were undergoing exercise program and compression therapy using compression leggings, and the remaining three were undergoing exercises only. During the first 4 weeks, intervention was under the supervision of a physiotherapist, and in the remaining weeks, participants were exercising independently. Measurements of circumference, weight, thickness of the skin and adipose tissue, symptom severity, and quality of life were taken at baseline, after 4 weeks and after 6 weeks; (3) Results: There was a significant decrease in the subjectively reported tendency for bruising and pain at palpation among patients that received compression therapy. Additionally, there was a tendency to reduce or maintain the circumference of the legs in patients using compression, while it tended to increase in patients without compression. (4) Conclusions: Preliminary results indicate that compression therapy, combined with exercises, could improve the quality of life and decrease the severity of lipedema symptoms. Further studies on a large clinical group are advisable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Czerwińska
- Department of Physiotherapy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Jacek Teodorczyk
- Department of Nuclear Medicine and Radiology Informatics, Medical University of Gdańsk, 17 Mariana Smoluchowskiego Street, 80-214 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Dawid Spychała
- Department of Physiotherapy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland
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Falck J, Rolander B, Nygårdh A, Jonasson LL, Mårtensson J. Women with lipoedema: a national survey on their health, health-related quality of life, and sense of coherence. BMC Womens Health 2022; 22:457. [PMCID: PMC9673372 DOI: 10.1186/s12905-022-02022-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2022] [Accepted: 10/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Lipoedema is a chronic disease in adipose tissue that almost exclusively affects women during periods of hormonal alterations. Its main symptoms include an abnormal accumulation of subcutaneous fat in the buttock, hips, and legs, which is associated with pain, swelling, and easy bruising. Herein, a grading in three stages is used to determine disease progression. Problematically, lipoedema manifestations are often confused with lifestyle-induced obesity, which is why the various health problems among affected women often remain unrecognized. Overall, research on lipoedema is scarce. As such, this study examined the health, health-related quality of life (HRQOL), and sense of coherence (SOC) among women with lipoedema. Methods We conducted a national cross-sectional study using an online survey assessing sociodemographic data, lipoedema characteristics, symptom severity, comorbidities, HRQOL (RAND-36), and SOC (SOC-13). In total, 245 women with lipoedema, recruited from all Lipoedema Association groups in Sweden, participated. Data were compiled with descriptive statistics, and mean differences between groups were analysed by using parametric and non-parametric tests. Results Moderate and severe leg heaviness, pain, numbness, cold skin, feeling cold, easy bruising, and sleep problems were found to occur in all lipoedema stages. Moreover, almost all participants reported having comorbidities. Worse physical health and most substantial limitations in daily life were reported among women with the most progressive lipoedema (i.e., stage 3). Social and emotional functioning and SOC were found to be, on the other hand, primarily related to respondents’ sociodemographic data and their ages at lipoedema onset. Even though approximately 70% of the women had experienced lipoedema onset before age 30, only three (1.6%) had been diagnosed by a healthcare professional before that age. Conclusion Having lipoedema is associated with several health problems and a lower HRQOL. In addition, the extent of delay in diagnosis within this sample indicates that many women with lipoedema are often underdiagnosed and are left without support from healthcare. These findings call for the need for greater attention on lipoedema. Moreover, further studies on how women with lipoedema manage their health and symptoms, as well as on their experiences of healthcare services and lipoedema treatments, are needed. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12905-022-02022-3.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johanna Falck
- grid.118888.00000 0004 0414 7587Department of Nursing Science, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Bo Rolander
- grid.451698.7Futurum, Academy for Health and Care, Jönköping County Council, Jönköping, Sweden ,grid.118888.00000 0004 0414 7587Department of Social Work, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Annette Nygårdh
- grid.118888.00000 0004 0414 7587Department of Nursing Science, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Lise-Lotte Jonasson
- grid.118888.00000 0004 0414 7587Department of Nursing Science, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
| | - Jan Mårtensson
- grid.118888.00000 0004 0414 7587Department of Nursing Science, School of Health and Welfare, Jönköping University, Jönköping, Sweden
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BONETTI GABRIELE, HERBST KARENL, DHULI KRISTJANA, KIANI AYSHAKARIM, MICHELINI SERENA, MICHELINI SILVIA, CECCARINI MARIARACHELE, MICHELINI SANDRO, RICCI MAURIZIO, CESTARI MARINA, CODINI MICHELA, BECCARI TOMMASO, BELLINATO FRANCESCO, GISONDI PAOLO, BERTELLI MATTEO. Dietary supplements for lipedema. JOURNAL OF PREVENTIVE MEDICINE AND HYGIENE 2022; 63:E169-E173. [PMID: 36479502 PMCID: PMC9710418 DOI: 10.15167/2421-4248/jpmh2022.63.2s3.2758] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
Lipedema is a chronic disease that mostly manifests in females as the abnormal distribution of subcutaneous adipose connective tissue, usually coupled with bruising, pain, and edema. Lipedema molecular pathophysiology is currently not clear, but several studies suggest that genetics and hormonal imbalance participate in lipedema pathogenesis. Women with lipedema present in some cases with elevated body mass index, and the appearance of obesity in addition to lipedema, where the obesity can cause serious health issues as in lipedema-free individuals with obesity, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disorders. Unlike obesity, lipedema tissue does not respond well to diet or physical exercise alone. Therefore, in this review we discuss the effect of various dietary supplements that, along with diet and physical exercise, cause fat burning and weight loss, and which could potentially be important in the treatment of lipedema. Indeed, an effective fat burner should convert stored fats into energy, mobilize and break down triglycerides in adipocytes, boost metabolism and inhibit lipogenesis. Common ingredients of fat burning supplements are green tea, caffeine, chromium, carnitine, and conjugated linoleic acid. The use of fat burners could act synergistically with a healthy diet and physical exercise for decreasing adipose tissue deposition in patients with lipedema and resolve related health issues. The effects of fat burners in human studies are sometimes contradictory, and further studies should test their effectiveness in treating lipedema.
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Affiliation(s)
- GABRIELE BONETTI
- MAGI’S LAB, Rovereto (TN), Italy
- Correspondence: Gabriele Bonetti, MAGI’S LAB, Rovereto (TN), 38068, Italy. E-mail:
| | - KAREN L. HERBST
- Total Lipedema Care, Beverly Hills California and Tucson Arizona, USA
| | | | | | - SERENA MICHELINI
- Unit of Physical Medicine, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - SANDRO MICHELINI
- Vascular Diagnostics and Rehabilitation Service, Marino Hospital, ASL Roma 6, Marino, Italy
| | - MAURIZIO RICCI
- Division of Rehabilitation Medicine, Azienda Ospedaliero-Universitaria, Ospedali Riuniti di Ancona, Italy
| | - MARINA CESTARI
- Study Centre Pianeta Linfedema, Terni, Italy
- Lymphology Sector of the Rehabilitation Service, USL Umbria 2, Terni, Italy
| | - MICHELA CODINI
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences; University of Perugia, Perugia
| | - TOMMASO BECCARI
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences; University of Perugia, Perugia
| | - FRANCESCO BELLINATO
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - PAOLO GISONDI
- Section of Dermatology and Venereology, Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - MATTEO BERTELLI
- MAGI’S LAB, Rovereto (TN), Italy
- MAGI EUREGIO, Bolzano, Italy
- MAGISNAT, Peachtree Corners (GA), USA
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Chakraborty A, Crescenzi R, Usman TA, Reyna AJ, Garza ME, Al-Ghadban S, Herbst KL, Donahue PMC, Rutkowski JM. Indications of Peripheral Pain, Dermal Hypersensitivity, and Neurogenic Inflammation in Patients with Lipedema. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:10313. [PMID: 36142221 PMCID: PMC9499469 DOI: 10.3390/ijms231810313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/15/2022] [Revised: 08/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/01/2022] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Lipedema is a disease with abnormally increased adipose tissue deposition and distribution. Pain sensations have been described in the clinical evaluation of lipedema, but its etiology remains poorly understood. We hypothesized that pain sensitivity measurements and ex vivo quantitation of neuronal cell body distribution in the skin would be lipedema stage-dependent, and could, thus, serve to objectively characterize neuropathic pain in lipedema. The pain was assessed by questionnaire and peripheral cutaneous mechanical sensitization (von-Frey) in lipedema (n = 27) and control (n = 23) consenting female volunteers. Dermal biopsies from (n = 11) Stages 1-3 lipedema and control (n = 10) participants were characterized for neuronal cell body and nociceptive neuropeptide calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP) and nerve growth factor (NGF) distribution. Stage 2 or 3 lipedema participants responded positively to von Frey sensitization in the calf and thigh, and Stage 3 participants also responded in the arm. Lipedema abdominal skin displayed reduced Tuj-1+ neuronal cell body density, compared to healthy controls, while CGRP and NGF was significantly elevated in Stage 3 lipedema tissues. Together, dermal neuronal cell body loss is consistent with hyper-sensitization in patients with lipedema. Further study of neuropathic pain in lipedema may elucidate underlying disease mechanisms and inform lipedema clinical management and treatment impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adri Chakraborty
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
- Currently the Arthritis & Autoimmune Diseases Research Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA 02118, USA
| | - Rachelle Crescenzi
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Timaj A. Usman
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Andrea J. Reyna
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
| | - Maria E. Garza
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Science, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Sara Al-Ghadban
- Department of Microbiology, Immunology & Genetics, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX 76107, USA
| | | | - Paula M. C. Donahue
- Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
- Dayani Center for Health and Wellness, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Joseph M. Rutkowski
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A&M University School of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA
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20
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Lombardo S. Lipedema. Home Healthc Now 2022; 40:287. [PMID: 36048228 DOI: 10.1097/nhh.0000000000001104] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Susan Lombardo
- Susan Lombardo, PhD, RN , is Clinical Associate Professor, Patricia H. Garman School of Nursing, D'Youville University, Buffalo, New York
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21
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Duhon BH, Phan TT, Taylor SL, Crescenzi RL, Rutkowski JM. Current Mechanistic Understandings of Lymphedema and Lipedema: Tales of Fluid, Fat, and Fibrosis. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:6621. [PMID: 35743063 PMCID: PMC9223758 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23126621] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2022] [Revised: 06/08/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Lymphedema and lipedema are complex diseases. While the external presentation of swollen legs in lower-extremity lymphedema and lipedema appear similar, current mechanistic understandings of these diseases indicate unique aspects of their underlying pathophysiology. They share certain clinical features, such as fluid (edema), fat (adipose expansion), and fibrosis (extracellular matrix remodeling). Yet, these diverge on their time course and known molecular regulators of pathophysiology and genetics. This divergence likely indicates a unique route leading to interstitial fluid accumulation and subsequent inflammation in lymphedema versus lipedema. Identifying disease mechanisms that are causal and which are merely indicative of the condition is far more explored in lymphedema than in lipedema. In primary lymphedema, discoveries of genetic mutations link molecular markers to mechanisms of lymphatic disease. Much work remains in this area towards better risk assessment of secondary lymphedema and the hopeful discovery of validated genetic diagnostics for lipedema. The purpose of this review is to expose the distinct and shared (i) clinical criteria and symptomatology, (ii) molecular regulators and pathophysiology, and (iii) genetic markers of lymphedema and lipedema to help inform future research in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bailey H. Duhon
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A & M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA; (B.H.D.); (T.T.P.)
| | - Thien T. Phan
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A & M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA; (B.H.D.); (T.T.P.)
| | - Shannon L. Taylor
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University School of Engineering, Nashville, TN 37232, USA;
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Rachelle L. Crescenzi
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Vanderbilt University School of Engineering, Nashville, TN 37232, USA;
- Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences, Vanderbilt University Institute of Imaging Sciences, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
| | - Joseph M. Rutkowski
- Department of Medical Physiology, Texas A & M University College of Medicine, Bryan, TX 77807, USA; (B.H.D.); (T.T.P.)
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22
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Yoneda T, Hiasa M, Okui T, Hata K. Sensory nerves: A driver of the vicious cycle in bone metastasis? J Bone Oncol 2021; 30:100387. [PMID: 34504741 PMCID: PMC8411232 DOI: 10.1016/j.jbo.2021.100387] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2021] [Revised: 08/17/2021] [Accepted: 08/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Bone is one of the preferential target organs of cancer metastasis. Bone metastasis is associated with various complications, of which bone pain is most common and debilitating. The cancer-associated bone pain (CABP) is induced as a consequence of increased neurogenesis, reprogramming and axonogenesis of sensory nerves (SNs) in harmony with sensitization and excitation of SNs in response to the tumor microenvironment created in bone. Importantly, CABP is associated with increased mortality, of which precise cellular and molecular mechanism remains poorly understood. Bone is densely innervated by autonomic nerves (ANs) (sympathetic and parasympathetic nerves) and SNs. Recent studies have shown that the nerves innervating the tumor microenvironment establish intimate communications with tumors, producing various stimuli for tumors to progress and disseminate. In this review, our current understanding of the role of SNs innervating bone in the pathophysiology of CABP will be overviewed. Then the hypothesis that SNs facilitate cancer progression in bone will be discussed in conjunction with our recent findings that SNs play an important role not only in the induction of CABP but also the progression of bone metastasis using a preclinical model of CABP. It is suggested that SNs are a critical component of the bone microenvironment that drives the vicious cycle between bone and cancer to progress bone metastasis. Suppression of the activity of bone-innervating SNs may have potential therapeutic effects on the progression of bone metastasis and induction of CABP.
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Key Words
- AN, autonomic nerve
- BDNF, brain-derived neurotrophic factor
- BMP, bone morphogenetic protein
- BMSC, bone marrow stromal cells
- Bone microenvironment
- CABP, cancer-associated bone pain
- CALCRL, calcitonin receptor-like receptor
- CAP, cancer-associated pain
- CCL2, C–C motif chemokine 2
- CGRP, calcitonin gene-related peptide
- CNS, central nervous system
- COX, cyclooxygenase
- CREB, cyclic AMP-responsive element-binding protein
- CRPC, castration-resistant prostate cancer
- CXCL1, C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 1
- CXCL2, C-X-C Motif Chemokine Ligand 2
- Cancer-associated bone pain
- DRG, dorsal root ganglion
- ERK1/2, extracellular receptor kinase ½
- G-CSF, granulocyte colony-stimulating factor
- GDNF, glial-derived neurotrophic factor
- HGF, hepatocyte growth factor
- HIF-1α, hypoxia-inducible transcription factor-1α
- HMGB-1, high mobility group box-1
- HSCs, hematopoietic stem cells
- HUVECs, human umbilical vein endothelial cells
- IL-1β, interleukin 1β
- MM, multiple myeloma
- MOR, mu-opioid receptor
- NE, norepinephrine
- NGF, nerve growth factor
- NI, nerve invasion
- NPY, neuropeptide Y
- NSAIDs, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs
- Nociceptors
- OA, osteoarthritis
- OPG, osteoprotegerin
- PACAP, pituitary adenylate cyclase-activating peptide
- PD-1, programmed cell death-1
- PD-L1, programmed death-ligand 1
- PDAC, pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
- PGE2, prostaglandin E2
- PNI, perineural invasion
- PanIN, pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia
- Perineural invasion
- RAGE, receptor for advanced glycation end products
- RAMP1, receptor activity modifying protein 1
- RANKL, receptor activator of NF-κB ligand
- RTX, resiniferatoxin
- SN, sensory nerves
- SP, substance P
- SRE, skeletal-related event
- Sensory nerves
- TGFβ, transforming growth factor β
- TNFα, tumor necrosis factor α
- TRPV1
- TrkA, tyrosine kinase receptor type 1
- VEGF, vascular endothelial growth factor
- VIP, vasoactive intestinal peptide
- a3V-H+-ATPase, a3 isoform vacuolar proton pump
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiyuki Yoneda
- Department of Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka, Japan
| | - Masahiro Hiasa
- Department of Biomaterials and Bioengineerings, University of Tokushima Graduate School of Dentistry, Tokushima, Japan
| | - Tatsuo Okui
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery and Biopathology, Okayama University Graduate School of Medicine, Dentistry and Pharmaceutical Science, Okayama, Japan
| | - Kenji Hata
- Department of Biochemistry, Osaka University Graduate School of Dentistry, Osaka, Japan
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23
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Czerwińska M, Ostrowska P, Hansdorfer-Korzon R. Lipoedema as a Social Problem. A Scoping Review. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:10223. [PMID: 34639524 PMCID: PMC8508106 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph181910223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/25/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
(1) Background: Lipoedema is a disease characterized by excessive bilateral and symmetrical accumulation of subcutaneous tissue in the lower extremities. It is a poorly understood condition, and low awareness of its existence often leads to incorrect diagnosis Initially, lipoedema was considered to be completely independent of lifestyle Currently, however, more and more cases of the coexistence of lipoedema and obesity are described in the literature as additionally affecting the severity of the disease The aim of the review is to present lipoedema as a social problem. (2) Methods: Materials on lipoedema in the social context were selected from 2018-2021. The PRISMA-Scr checklist was used in the review. (3) Results: Research has shown that more than 3/4 of patients with lipoedema are also overweight or obese. Patients with lipoedema have many comorbidities, and their presence negatively affects the quality of life. The quality of life in patients with lipoedema is lower than in healthy patients. (4) Conclusions: The number of studies available on lipoedema is low. Obesity is common in patients with lipoedema. Mental disorders increase the level of experienced pain. Lipoedema significantly reduces quality of life. A healthy lifestyle in patients with lipoedema could be helpful for prevention of complications and disability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Monika Czerwińska
- Department of Physiotherapy, Medical University of Gdańsk, 80-211 Gdańsk, Poland; (P.O.); (R.H.-K.)
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