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Multiple symmetric lipomatosis as a genetic disorder: a review

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Abstract

Multiple symmetric lipomatosis (MSL) is a rare disorder characterized by the presence of multiple, symmetric nonencapsulated fat masses in the face, neck, and other areas. The typical presentation of MSL consists of massive lipomatous deposits around the neck which has given rise to the classic description of a buffalo hump or horse collar. The etiology is unknown although autosomal dominant or mitochondrial inheritance has been postulated based on several affected families and tissue studies. We reviewed the current literature and present a 43-year-old male with a circumferential neck mass composed of multiple nonencapsulated lipomas. His family history is unique with eight family members over three generations.

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No competing interests is declared.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Plastic Surgery, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, 500 W. Thomas Road, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA

    Alex Bryan Olsen & Edward Joganic

  2. Department of Genetics, St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center, 222 W. Thomas Road, Ste 304, Phoenix, AZ, 85013, USA

    Theresa A. Grebe

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  1. Alex Bryan Olsen
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  2. Theresa A. Grebe
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  3. Edward Joganic
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Correspondence to Alex Bryan Olsen.

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Olsen, A.B., Grebe, T.A. & Joganic, E. Multiple symmetric lipomatosis as a genetic disorder: a review. Eur J Plast Surg 35, 413–419 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-012-0697-z

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00238-012-0697-z

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