Infliximab-Induced Improvement in Dercum's Disease.
Cailean E McKay1, Ishaan Batish2, Shiva Arami3
1Internal Medicine-Pediatrics, University of Illinois Chicago, Chicago, USA.
Cureus
|July 2, 2024
Summary
Dercum's disease, a rare condition causing painful lipomas and obesity, lacks clear causes and treatments. This study presents a case where infliximab and methotrexate improved patient symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Rheumatology
- Dermatology
- Rare Diseases
Background:
- Dercum's disease (DD) is a rare, poorly understood condition characterized by obesity and multiple painful lipomas.
- The etiology, prevalence, and optimal treatment strategies for DD remain unclear.
- Current management primarily focuses on symptomatic pain relief.
Observation:
- A case study involving a patient diagnosed with Dercum's disease is presented.
- The patient presented with characteristic symptoms of DD, including painful adipose tissue growths.
Findings:
- The patient received treatment with a combination of infliximab and methotrexate.
- A notable improvement in the patient's condition and symptoms was observed following treatment.
Implications:
- Infliximab and methotrexate may represent potential therapeutic options for managing Dercum's disease.
- Further research is warranted to explore the efficacy and safety of these agents in a larger patient cohort.
- This case contributes to the limited understanding of Dercum's disease treatment possibilities.
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