Lipohypertrofier

Lipohypertrophie refers to an increase in the size or thickness of subcutaneous fat due to the massive enlargement of the fat cells. This condition is also known as fat cell hypertrophy or lipophypertrophy. It is a benign but exaggerated growth of the adipocytes (fat cells) under the skin.

The term was first introduced by French skin pathologist Francis Exertier in 1947 to describe the abnormal growth of fat cells. Lipohypertrophie can occur in any part of the body, but it is most commonly seen in the skin of the face, abdomen, buttocks, and arms. The condition is caused by an unknown combination of factors, including genetics, hormonal imbalances, and changes in body composition.

The main characteristic of lipohypertrophie is the massive enlargement of the fat cells, which can lead to an uneven distribution of fat under the skin. In some cases, the enlarged fat cells can merge to form large, lobulated masses. Lipohypertrophie can be resistant to treatment with dieting and exercise, as the enlarged fat cells can continue to grow even after weight loss. Despite its name, lipohypertrophie is not a true hypertrophy (increase in size) of the fat cells, but rather a hyperplasia (increase in number) of smaller fat cells.

Lipohypertrophie is diagnosed through a combination of clinical examination, medical history, and imaging studies such as ultrasound or MRI. Treatment is usually based on the underlying cause of the condition, and may include medications, hormones, or other therapies to reduce excess fat cells. In some cases, surgical intervention may be necessary to remove excess fat or skin.