Dercums

Dercums is a surname that may refer to people bearing the name. The term is most commonly associated with a medical eponym, Dercum's disease, named after the American physician Francis Xavier Dercum who described a painful adipose tissue condition.

Dercum's disease, or adiposis dolorosa, is a rare, chronic disorder characterized by painful fatty tissue deposits that may be localized or widespread. Patients often experience persistent pain and tenderness in affected areas, and some report fatigue, headaches, and obesity. The exact cause is unknown, and the condition remains controversial in terms of classification, with several proposed subtypes and overlap with other fat disorders such as lipedema.

Diagnosis is clinical, based on medical history and physical examination, with exclusion of other causes of pain and masses. There is no universally accepted laboratory test. Imaging and, in some cases, biopsy may aid assessment but are not definitive.

Treatment focuses on symptom relief and maintaining function. Approaches include pain medications (such as NSAIDs, anticonvulsants, and antidepressants), physical therapy, weight management, and lifestyle modification. In some instances, surgical removal of painful fat deposits or liposuction has provided relief, but results vary. Because the disorder is rare, management often requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach.

See also: Dercum's disease; adiposis dolorosa.