Progressive Lipodystrophy Differential Diagnoses

Updated: Apr 09, 2021
  • Author: Robert A Schwartz, MD, MPH; Chief Editor: William D James, MD  more...
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DDx

Diagnostic Considerations

Genetic testing may identify patients whose phenotypes may be inapparent, but who may still be affected by severe metabolic complications. [22]

Also consider the following:

  • Generalized lipodystrophies such as Berardinelli-Seip syndrome (associated with acanthosis nigricans) [23]
  • Other types of partial lipodystrophy
  • Centrifugal lipodystrophy [24]
  • Facial hemiatrophy
  • Short, hyperextensibility or hernia, ocular depression, Rieger anomaly, and teething (SHORT) syndrome
  • Anterior hypothalamus tumor

Progressive generalized lipodystrophy may be a sign of autoimmune polyglandular syndrome type 1. [25]

Lipodystrophy may be stigmatizing, implying use of highly active antiretroviral therapy (HAART) for HIV disease. [26]

Differential Diagnoses