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Case report highlights the challenges of diagnosing Madelung disease with associated avascular necrosis, suggesting treatment considerations.
Madelung disease (MD) is a rare disorder of adipose tissue overgrowth characterized by symmetrical and progressive accumulation of nonencapsulated adipose tissue in the subcutaneous layer, mainly in the neck, arms, and upper back. In some cases, involvement of the torso, mammary area, and lower limbs is also reported. Typically painless, fat masses can cause negative effects like dysphagia, dysphonia, breathing challenges, and reduced neck mobility. The majority of individuals affected are men who consume alcohol excessively. Patients often opt for treatment for MD due to its cosmetic implications and metabolic complications. The disease’s cause is not fully understood, making diagnosis and treatment challenging. Treatment is mainly surgical for cosmetic deformity or pressure symptoms.
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Metke et al. (2026) studied this question.
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