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PubMed This is a summary of 52 peer-reviewed journal articles Updated
Metabolism

Navigating Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (Madelung's Disease)

At a Glance

Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (Madelung's disease) is a rare metabolic disorder causing non-cancerous fat deposits around the upper body. While surgery can remove these deposits, they often return, requiring comprehensive management of lifestyle factors and related conditions like neuropathy.

If you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL), also known as Madelung’s disease or Launois-Bensaude syndrome, you may be feeling overwhelmed or confused. MSL is a rare metabolic condition that causes abnormal, non-cancerous fat deposits to grow, typically around the neck, shoulders, and upper body [1][2].

Because MSL is rare, many local doctors may not have extensive experience with it [1]. This resource guide was created to help you understand your diagnosis, evaluate your treatment options, and effectively advocate for your health. Knowledge is your most powerful tool in partnering with your medical team to build a comprehensive care plan.

How to Use This Guide

This guide is broken down into specific topics to help you navigate your journey with MSL. Please explore the following pages:

01

Building a Foundation: Understanding Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis

Learn about Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL), also known as Madelung's disease. Understand the types, symptoms, causes, and what to expect from your care.

02

Symptoms and Getting an Accurate Diagnosis

Learn about Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL) symptoms, including the Madelung collar and buffalo hump, and how doctors use imaging for an accurate diagnosis.

03

Understanding MSL Subtypes and Patterns

Learn about Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL) subtypes. Understand the difference between Type I and Type II, and how your pattern impacts treatment.

04

Treatment Strategies and Surgical Options

Learn about treatment options for Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL), including surgical excision, liposuction, recurrence rates, and lifestyle management.

05

Managing Comorbidities and Long-Term Health

Learn how to manage Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL) long-term. Understand systemic comorbidities like sleep apnea, neuropathy, and liver disease.

Common questions in this guide

What is Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (MSL)?
MSL, also known as Madelung's disease, is a rare metabolic condition that causes abnormal, non-cancerous fat deposits to grow. These deposits most commonly appear around the neck, shoulders, and upper body.
How is Madelung's disease treated?
Treatment often involves surgical removal of the fat deposits through lipectomy or tumescent liposuction. However, the fat deposits have a high likelihood of returning, making lifestyle changes like alcohol cessation an important part of management.
What other health conditions are associated with MSL?
Patients with MSL often experience additional systemic conditions. These can include peripheral neuropathy, sleep apnea, and metabolic syndrome, which require ongoing monitoring and management by your medical team.
What types of doctors treat Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis?
Because it is a rare and complex condition, care typically requires a multidisciplinary team. This team often includes plastic surgeons for fat removal, neurologists for neuropathy, sleep specialists, and metabolic experts.

Questions to Ask Your Doctor

Curated prompts to bring to your next appointment.

  1. 1.What is your experience in treating patients with Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis, and do you frequently coordinate with specialists in metabolism or neurology?
  2. 2.Based on my current condition, what specialists (such as plastic surgeons, neurologists, or sleep specialists) should I add to my care team right now?
  3. 3.How will we establish a baseline to monitor the progression of my disease and its associated comorbidities over the coming years?

Questions For You

Tap a prompt to share your answer — we'll use it plus this page's context to start a tailored conversation.

References

References (2)
  1. 1

    Madelung's disease. Two case reports with pseudoathletic appearance.

    Miraglia E, Moliterni E, Iacovino C, et al.

    La Clinica terapeutica 2021; (172(3)):190-192 doi:10.7417/CT.2021.2311.

    PMID: 33956034
  2. 2

    IMAGES IN CLINICAL MEDICINE. Madelung's Disease.

    Nisi G, Sisti A

    The New England journal of medicine 2016; (374(6)):572 doi:10.1056/NEJMicm1503861.

    PMID: 26863358

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or a rare disease specialist regarding the diagnosis and management of Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis.

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