Lipomatous metaplasia
Pronunciation: lip-oh-MAT-us MET-ah-play-zhah
Pathological replacement of cardiac muscle tissue with mature adipose tissue, commonly seen in chronic ischemic heart disease.
Full Definition
Lipomatous metaplasia refers to the pathological process where normal cardiac myocytes are replaced by mature adipose (fat) tissue, representing an end-stage response to chronic injury or ischemia. This process is distinct from normal epicardial fat and typically occurs in areas of previous myocardial infarction, chronic inflammation, or other forms of sustained cardiac injury. Histologically, the affected areas show complete replacement of myocardial architecture with mature adipocytes, often accompanied by fibrous tissue. This change is irreversible and represents a form of healing response, though it contributes to loss of functional myocardium. Lipomatous metaplasia can be extensive in some cases and may predispose to arrhythmias due to the altered electrical properties of the tissue.
Usage
Usage note: Distinguish from normal epicardial fat and arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy with fatty replacement.
In Context
- "Extensive lipomatous metaplasia was present in the region of the old anterior myocardial infarction." — Cardiac autopsy report
- "The lipomatous metaplasia extended transmurally through the left ventricular free wall." — Histopathology assessment