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Lipedematous Scalp Occurring in Two Female Siblings: Further Evidence for a Genetic Role
Nada Khalil1, James Carton2, Carolina P Fernandez1
1Department of Dermatology, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK.
Skin Appendage Disorders
|February 6, 2024
Summary
Lipedematous scalp (LS) is a rare condition. This report details the first known cases of LS in siblings, suggesting a potential genetic link and association with psychiatric conditions.
Area of Science:
- Dermatology
- Genetics
- Pathology
Background:
- Lipedematous scalp (LS) is a rare disorder characterized by scalp adipose tissue thickening.
- Fewer than 100 cases of LS have been reported globally.
- LS in siblings has not been previously documented.
Observation:
- A case study of two Black Caribbean female siblings (58 and 63 years old) presenting with LS.
- Ultrasound revealed significant scalp thickness (12 mm and 11 mm) in both siblings.
- Histopathology showed prominent dermal fat, follicular distortion, and perifollicular fibrosis in the younger sibling.
Findings:
- This is the first reported instance of lipedematous scalp in siblings, suggesting a possible genetic predisposition.
- Both siblings had co-occurring psychiatric conditions (obesity, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, hypercholesterolemia, diabetes mellitus, hypomania, migraines) and were on psychiatric medication.
- These psychiatric comorbidities represent a novel association with LS.
Implications:
- The familial occurrence of LS supports the hypothesis of a genetic component in its pathogenesis.
- The co-occurrence of LS with psychiatric disorders warrants further investigation into potential shared etiological factors.
- This case expands the clinical understanding of lipedematous scalp and its potential associations.
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