What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

• Localized Lipomatosis of the Scalp with or without Alopecia

What is Lipedematous Scalp? (Definition/Background Information)

• Lipedematous Scalp is an uncommon condition that results in thickening of the fat tissue of the scalp resulting in pain and itchy sensation. It may be accompanied by hair loss, a condition termed lipedematous alopecia, and is generally observed in women
• The cause of the condition is generally unknown, but it may arise due to certain environmental, physiological, or genetic factors. The risk factors for Lipedematous Scalp include uncontrolled diabetes, regularly wearing tight helmets or turbans, hyperlipidemia, or kidney failure
• The treatment may involve corticosteroid therapy, but presently, there are no well-defined treatment measures available for Lipedematous Scalp. The overall prognosis of Lipedematous Scalp depends on the severity of the underlying condition responsible for the same

Who gets Lipedematous Scalp? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Lipedematous Scalp is an extremely rare disorder that is observed in adults
• The condition is more prevalent in women than men
• Individuals of all racial and ethnic groups may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Lipedematous Scalp? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Lipedematous Scalp may include:

• Tight headwear
• Hormonal fluctuations
• Diabetes mellitus
• Renal failure
• Loose joints and skin
• Sjögren's syndrome
• Hyperlipidemia
• Ovarian cysts

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases one’s chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Lipedematous Scalp? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Lipedematous Scalp is presently unknown
• However, certain predisposing factors have been identified for this condition that include abnormal hormone levels in the body, poorly-controlled diabetes, frequent use of tight headgear, including genetic disorders such as Sjögren's syndrome

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Lipedematous Scalp?

The signs and symptoms of Lipedematous Scalp may vary among affected individuals. It may be mild or severe and may include:

• Thickening of the scalp (it may feel like hair has a bedding of soft cotton)
• Increased scalp sensitivity
• Spongy appearance of the scalp
• Itchiness
• Diffuse pain in the affected region
• Abnormal sensations (paresthesia)
• Headache
• Burning
• Loss of hair

How is Lipedematous Scalp Diagnosed?

Lipedematous Scalp is diagnosed on the basis of the following information:

• Physical examination of the individual and medical history evaluation; a visual examination of the scalp may help the healthcare provider suspect the condition
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Imaging studies of the affected region
• Skin biopsy, if necessary: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis
• Diagnostic tests to check for an underlying disorder or condition, if any present

A differential diagnosis may be necessary to eliminate other conditions that present similar signs and symptoms. These may include:

• Chronic infections
• Cutis verticis gyrata
• Subcutaneous granuloma annulare
• Subcutaneous neoplasms

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Lipedematous Scalp?

The complications of Lipedematous Scalp may include:

• Extreme sensitivity and itching of scalp
• Hair loss (termed lipedematous alopecia), which may be permanent
• Low self-esteem and emotional stress
• Cosmetic issues
• Complications that may arise from any underlying disorders/conditions

Complications may occur with or without treatment, and in some cases, due to treatment also.

How is Lipedematous Scalp Treated?

• The treatment for Lipedematous Scalp is determined by the severity of signs and symptoms and may include steroid medications. However, presently there are no well-defined treatment measures available for the condition
• If there is an underlying disorder/condition causing Lipedematous Scalp, then adequate treatment of the causative condition is essential

Regular medical screening at periodic intervals with tests and physical examinations are recommended.

How can Lipedematous Scalp be Prevented?

The cause of Lipedematous Scalp is not known, and therefore no preventive methods or guidelines are available at the present time.

• Controlling some of the risk factors, such as keeping diabetes under control, avoiding tight headgear, treating hormonal imbalances and certain kidney and ovarian conditions, may help avoid the condition
• If there is a family history of the condition, then genetic counseling will help assess risks, before planning for a child

What is the Prognosis of Lipedematous Scalp? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

The prognosis of Lipedematous Scalp is dependent upon the severity of the underlying causative condition, if any, it is associated with.

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Lipedematous Scalp:

The following DoveMed website link is a useful resource for additional information:

https://www.dovemed.com/healthy-living/skin-disorders/