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Lipedematous Scalp

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Other Names:
Localized lipomatosis of the scalp with or without alopecia
Lipedematous scalp is a rare disorder characterized by thickening of the adipose subcutaneous layer (fat tissue under the scalp). When associated with lack of hair, it is known as lipedematous alopecia. The scalp is soft, spongy or thick in the forehead area (apex) and in the back (occiput) of the head. It mainly affects women. Symptoms include diffuse pain, abnormal sensations (paresthesia), headache, burning, thickening of the scalp with localized or generalized sensitivity of the scalp or itching. The cause is unknown, but there may be mechanical factors, such as the prolonged wearing of tight headwear and hormonal factors. Lipedematous scalp may be associated with diseases such as diabetes mellitus, renal failure, loose joints and skin, Sjögren's syndrome, hyperlipidemia, and ovarian cysts.[1][2] There is no definitive treatment or ways to stop the progression of the disease. Corticosteroids and other medications may be used depending on the case.[3][4]
Last updated: 3/9/2017

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  1. Peter CV, Jennifer A, Raychaudhury T, Chandrashekhar L, Merilyn S, Gowda S & Shyam G. Lipedematous scalp.. Indian J Dermatol Venereol Leprol. May-June, 2014; 80(3):270-2. http://www.ijdvl.com/article.asp?issn=0378-6323;year=2014;volume=80;issue=3;spage=270;epage=272;aulast=Dincy.
  2. Piraccini BM, Voudouris S, Pazzaglia M, Rech G, Vicenzi C &Tosti A. Lipedematous alopecia of the scalp. Dermatol Online J. February 28, 2006; 12(2):6. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16638399.
  3. Carrasco-Zuber JE, Alvarez-Veliz S, Cataldo-Cerda K & Gonzalez-Bombardiere S. Lipedematous scalp: a case report and review of the current literature. J Dtsch Dermatol Ges. March, 2016; http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/ddg.12813/abstract.
  4. Cabrera R, Larrondo J, Whittle C, Castro A & Gosch M. Successful Treatment of Lipedematous Alopecia using Mycophenolate Mofetil. Acta Derm Venereol. 2015; 95:1011–1012. http://www.medicaljournals.se/acta/content/?doi=10.2340/00015555-2114&html=1.