Lipoedema is a chronic condition that causes an abnormal accumulation of fat, usually in the legs, thighs, buttocks, and sometimes the arms. It primarily affects women and is often misdiagnosed as obesity or lymphedema. The condition is characterized by disproportionate fat distribution, tenderness, easy bruising, and sometimes pain in the affected areas.

 

 

 

 

 

Key Features of Lipoedema:

• Bilateral & Symmetrical: Fat accumulates evenly on both sides of the body.

• Disproportionate Fat Storage: The lower body is significantly larger than the upper body.

• Pain & Tenderness: The affected areas may be painful to touch.

• Easy Bruising: The skin bruises more easily than normal.

• Spares the Feet & Hands: Unlike general obesity, the feet and hands are usually unaffected, leading to a "cuffing" effect at the ankles and wrists.

• Progressive Condition: It can worsen over time, especially with hormonal changes like puberty, pregnancy, and menopause.

 

 

 

 

 

 Nodules 

Lipedema is categorized as lipomatosis, also known as a subcutaneous fat disease that is characterized by abnormal fibrosis of the subcutaneous fat tissue. Fibrosis (also known as fibrotic scarring), is a pathological wound healing in which connective tissue replaces normal tissue, eventually leading to the formation of permanent scar tissue. The fibrosis of Lipedema fat tissue or lipomatosis gives it a hard, nodular feeling when touched. 

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Early-stage Lipedema (Stage 1) has small nodules the size of small seeds or peas, which often appear pearl-size.

Middle stage Lipedema (Stage 2) has larger nodules that feel like the size walnuts or a gumball.

Later stage Lipedema (Stage 3)  is characterized by the presence of lobules that are typically the same size as the nodules in Stage 2, with other larger nodules up to the size of a plum.

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​Nodules for the Diagnosis of Lipedema 

The nodules felt on the skin are important criteria for diagnosing Lipedema. Nodular or bumpy subcutaneous fat occurs with other conditions or diseases such as cellulite or obesity and other fat disorders, however, subcutaneous nodules must be present to diagnose lipedema. These nodules represent excess and slightly disorganized fibrosis of the subcutaneous tissue. Inflammation of the adipose tissue in lipedema is likely the cause of this fibrosis. 

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Causes & Risk Factors:

The exact cause of lipoedema is unknown, but it is believed to have a genetic and hormonal component. It often runs in families and typically begins or worsens during hormonal shifts.

 

Treatment Options:

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