[Metabolical characteristics in patients with multiple symmetrical lipomatosis]

Multiple symmetrical lipomatosis (MSL) is a rare cause of obesity. As the cause is unknown the therapeutic options are unsatisfactory. This study was undertaken to elucidate whether there are singular metabolic and endocrine characteristics in such patients.

Data were collected from 15 patients with MSL who had been referred to our clinic during the last ten years. Various metabolic and endocrine parameters as well as bone density were measured. The possible presence of an obstructive sleep apnoea syndrome was also looked for.

Five of the 15 patients fulfilled the International Diabetes Federation's criteria of a metabolic syndrome. The parathormone level was elevated in seven patients, but there were no other endocrine abnormalities.

No endocrine abnormalities other than an elevation of parathormone (of no clinical significance) are associated with MSL. But the prevalence of the (cardio)metabolic syndrome is relatively high. Thus an elevated risk of cardiovascular disease in these patients is likely.