[Lipoatrophia semicircularis (author's transl)]

11 young women were seen in the span of 2 years at the Department of Dermatology, University of Innsbruck, with dents of a very similar appearance on the extensor aspect of their thighs. These dents are characterized by their band-like circular localization and isolated atrophy of the subcutaneous fatty tissue. These changes are considered to be a distinct disease, termed lipoatrophia semicircularis. A differentiation from other diseases with atrophy of the subcutaneous fat, especially lipoatrophia annularis may be obtained on the basis of the clinical symptoms, histology and the course of disease. Possible causes and the pathogenesis of this disease are discussed.