Summary about Disease
Dercum's disease, also known as adiposis dolorosa, is a rare disorder characterized by multiple, painful lipomas (fatty tumors) under the skin. These lipomas are often accompanied by pain, fatigue, weakness, and psychological disturbances. The condition primarily affects women, especially after menopause, but can occur in men as well. There is no known cure for Dercum's disease, and treatment focuses on managing pain and other symptoms.
Symptoms
Painful lipomas: The hallmark symptom is the presence of painful lipomas, most commonly found on the trunk, upper arms, and upper legs. The pain can be constant or intermittent and may be burning, aching, or stabbing.
Fatigue: Profound fatigue is a common and debilitating symptom.
Weakness: Muscle weakness can occur, further contributing to fatigue.
Weight gain: Weight gain, often disproportionate to diet, is frequently observed.
Psychological disturbances: Depression, anxiety, irritability, and difficulty concentrating are common.
Skin issues: The skin overlying the lipomas may be red, inflamed, or easily bruised.
Other symptoms: These may include joint pain, stiffness, headaches, sleep disturbances, cognitive dysfunction, abdominal pain, bloating, constipation, shortness of breath, and memory problems.
Causes
The exact cause of Dercum's disease is unknown. Several theories have been proposed, including:
Genetic factors: Some researchers believe there may be a genetic component, although no specific gene has been identified.
Autoimmune disorders: Dercum's disease has been associated with certain autoimmune conditions.
Endocrine dysfunction: Hormonal imbalances may play a role.
Nervous system abnormalities: Some studies suggest that abnormalities in the nervous system may contribute to the pain associated with Dercum's disease.
Medicine Used
There is no specific cure for Dercum's disease, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms. Medications that may be used include:
Pain relievers: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and neuropathic pain medications (e.g., gabapentin, pregabalin) may be used to manage pain.
Corticosteroids: In some cases, corticosteroids may be used to reduce inflammation and pain, but their long-term use is associated with significant side effects.
Methotrexate: This medication is occasionally prescribed.
Other medications: Other medications that may be used include TNF-alpha inhibitors, antidepressants, and medications to manage specific symptoms, such as sleep disturbances.
Lidocaine: Injections of lidocaine into the lipomas may provide temporary pain relief.
Is Communicable
No, Dercum's disease is not communicable. It is not contagious and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Because the cause of Dercum's disease is unknown, there are no specific precautions to prevent it. However, managing symptoms and improving quality of life are crucial. Precautions to consider include:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle: A balanced diet, regular exercise (as tolerated), and adequate sleep can help manage symptoms.
Pain management strategies: Work with a healthcare professional to develop a comprehensive pain management plan.
Mental health support: Seek therapy or counseling to address psychological symptoms such as depression and anxiety.
Avoiding triggers: Identify and avoid activities or situations that exacerbate pain.
Protecting skin: Avoid injuries to areas affected by lipomas.
Compression garments: Compression garments can potentially help with pain.
Weight management: Maintaining a healthy weight can reduce overall stress on the body.
Support groups: Connecting with other people who have Dercum's disease can provide emotional support and valuable information.
How long does an outbreak last?
Dercum's disease is a chronic condition, meaning it is long-lasting. It doesn't have "outbreaks" in the traditional sense. Instead, the symptoms, particularly pain, may fluctuate in intensity over time. Some periods may be characterized by more severe pain (flares), while others may be relatively stable.
How is it diagnosed?
There is no single definitive test for Dercum's disease. Diagnosis is typically based on a clinical evaluation, which includes:
Medical history: The doctor will ask about your symptoms, medical history, and family history.
Physical examination: The doctor will examine the painful lipomas.
Exclusion of other conditions: Blood tests and imaging studies may be performed to rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.
Diagnostic criteria: The diagnosis is made by an expert physician based on established, although not universally accepted, criteria. Typically, chronic widespread pain, multiple painful lipomas, obesity, and excluding other diseases is required.
Timeline of Symptoms
The onset and progression of symptoms vary from person to person.
Early stages: Initially, symptoms may be mild and intermittent, such as localized pain or fatigue.
Progressive stages: Over time, the pain may become more widespread and constant. New lipomas may develop, and other symptoms, such as psychological disturbances, may emerge.
Chronic stages: Dercum's disease is a chronic condition, so symptoms persist over the long term. There may be periods of remission or exacerbation.
Important Considerations
Rare disease: Dercum's disease is a rare disorder, which can make diagnosis challenging.
Pain management: Pain management is a crucial aspect of treatment.
Multidisciplinary approach: A multidisciplinary approach, involving a team of healthcare professionals (e.g., pain specialists, physical therapists, psychologists), is often necessary to effectively manage symptoms.
Support groups: Joining a support group can provide emotional support and valuable information.
Research: More research is needed to better understand the causes of Dercum's disease and develop more effective treatments.
Quality of life: The chronic pain and other symptoms associated with Dercum's disease can significantly impact quality of life.
Individualized treatment: Treatment plans should be individualized to address the specific needs of each patient.