Lipoedema

Lipoedema was identified as a condition in 1940, yet continues to be poorly understood and is often misdiagnosed. It is an abnormal deposition of subcutaneous fat with an associated oedema. It occurs spontaneously (typically at puberty) and is characterised by symmetrical enlargement of both legs from below the waist to the ankles, while the upper body remains unaffected. Occasionally it also affects the arms. The skin is sensitive to pressure and tends to bruise easily. Pain ranges from negligible to disabling. Patients find the condition extremely distressing. Patients suffering from lipoedema may develop lymphoedema as well (lipo-lymphoedema).