Journal of cranio-maxillo-facial surgery : official publication of the European Association for Cranio-Maxillo-Facial Surgery
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J Craniomaxillofac Surg · Dec 2006
Case ReportsBenign symmetric lipomatosis of the tongue in Madelung's disease.
Madelung's disease is characterized by benign, non-encapsulated accumulations of fat in a symmetrical manner. Although rare, symmetrical lipomatosis involving the tongue exclusively has been previously reported. Here another case is presented of Madelung's disease involving the tongue. ⋯ Lipomas in Madelung's disease are characterized by multiplicity, non-encapsulation and invasiveness. Over the years, the fat deposits enlarge significantly, become cosmetically deforming, and cause dyspnoea and dysphagia in advanced cases. The aetiology of benign symmetrical lipomatosis is still unknown. It is often accompanied by liver dysfunction probably due to alcoholism. Treatment is limited to surgical removal of the fatty tissue, in patients with a severe cosmetic deformity causing psychological stress, and in patients with dyspnoea or dysphagia if there is restriction of the aerodigestive tract.