Dercum’s disease
in Beverly Hills, CA

Dercum’s Disease is best classified as a syndrome of painful growths of subcutaneous fat called ‘lipomas’.

SYMPTOMS OF THE CONDITION

While symptoms may vary from one patient to the next and could initially be mistaken for something else, patients with Dercum’s disease often notice a culmination of the following symptoms:

• Painful Lipomas: Soft to the touch, these growths can cause severe discomfort, especially when pressure is applied.
• Fatigue: Patients often experience a pervasive sense of tiredness that is not alleviated by rest.
• Emotional Distress: Anxiety and depression are frequent among those suffering from Dercum’s Disease, likely due to chronic pain and the condition’s visibility.
• Cognitive Difficulties: Some individuals report problems with memory and concentration, often referred to as “brain fog.”
• Mobility Issues: Pain and lipoma size can hinder physical movement, making daily activities challenging.
• Other Symptoms: Include swelling in affected areas, sleep disturbances, and a tendency to bruise easily.

CAUSE AND RISK FACTORS

The exact cause of Dercum’s Disease remains unknown, though it is thought to involve genetic, autoimmune, and metabolic factors. Risk factors may include age (most common in middle-aged individuals), sex (predominantly affects women), and obesity.

Currently, there is not a standard diagnosing process for Dercum’s Disease. The best way to ascertain if Dercum’s lipomas are present in the body is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Schwartz for a complete exam. The next step is to see a clinical specialist for a comprehensive ultrasound or MRI to locate the exact location, size, and density of the growths. These lipomas are generally classified as one one of three categories:

Nodular – The presence of large lipomas around your back, abdomen, thighs, and/arms
Diffuse – The widespread presence of small lipomas
Mixed – This indicates a combination of both small and large lipomas found in various areas of the body