lipodystrophy
Pronunciation: LIP-oh-dis-tro-fee
A disorder characterized by abnormal distribution or absence of adipose tissue, often leading to severe insulin resistance and metabolic complications.
Full Definition
Lipodystrophy encompasses a heterogeneous group of disorders characterized by selective loss of adipose tissue, which can be congenital or acquired, generalized or partial. The condition results in the inability to store lipids appropriately in subcutaneous fat, leading to ectopic fat deposition in liver, muscle, and other organs. This redistribution causes severe insulin resistance, diabetes, hypertriglyceridemia, and fatty liver disease. Lipodystrophy can be caused by genetic mutations affecting adipocyte development or function, or acquired through factors such as HIV medications, autoimmune processes, or repeated insulin injections at the same site. Understanding lipodystrophy has provided important insights into the role of healthy adipose tissue in metabolic homeostasis.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish between lipoatrophy (fat loss) and lipohypertrophy (fat accumulation).
In Context
- "The patient's severe insulin resistance was attributed to congenital generalized lipodystrophy." — Genetic medicine case report
- "Acquired lipodystrophy remains a concern with certain antiretroviral therapies in HIV patients." — HIV medicine review