Lipodystrophy

Lipodystrophy refers to a group of conditions where the body has trouble storing fat normally, either losing fat from certain areas or accumulating too much in others. This abnormal fat distribution can cause severe metabolic problems including insulin resistance and fatty liver disease, even in people who are not overweight. Though rare, understanding lipodystrophy helps doctors better treat patients with unusual weight distribution patterns.

Lipodystrophy encompasses a heterogeneous group of disorders characterised by partial or complete loss of adipose tissue, which may be genetic (congenital) or acquired (e.g., HIV-associated, autoimmune). Paradoxically, the inability to store triglycerides in subcutaneous adipose tissue leads to ectopic fat deposition in the liver, muscle, and pancreas, resulting in severe insulin resistance, hypertriglyceridemia, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease. Leptin replacement therapy (metreleptin) is an approved treatment for generalised forms.

While rare, recognising lipodystrophy can explain treatment-resistant metabolic abnormalities and guide appropriate therapy. The Accord Medical Clinic team, led by Dr. Joseph Wang, evaluates unusual weight distribution patterns as part of a thorough metabolic workup.