Berardinelli-Seip syndrome

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Berardinelli-Seip syndrome
Other namesCongenital generalized lipodystrophy
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SpecialtyEndocrinology, Genetics
SymptomsLack of adipose tissue, insulin resistance, acanthosis nigricans
Usual onsetCongenital
DurationLifelong
CausesGenetic mutations
Diagnostic methodClinical evaluation, genetic testing
TreatmentSymptomatic management, lifestyle modifications
PrognosisVariable
FrequencyRare


Berardinelli-Seip syndrome, also known as congenital generalized lipodystrophy, is a rare genetic disorder characterized by the near-total absence of adipose tissue, leading to a variety of metabolic complications. This condition is named after the physicians who first described it, Waldemar Berardinelli and Martin Seip.

Presentation[edit | edit source]

Individuals with Berardinelli-Seip syndrome typically present with a lack of subcutaneous fat from birth, which results in a muscular appearance. The absence of adipose tissue leads to the storage of fat in other tissues, such as the liver and muscles, causing complications like hepatomegaly and insulin resistance. Common symptoms include:

Genetics[edit | edit source]

Berardinelli-Seip syndrome is primarily caused by mutations in the AGPAT2 or BSCL2 genes. These genes are involved in the normal development and function of adipose tissue. The condition is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, meaning that an individual must inherit two copies of the mutated gene to be affected.

Diagnosis[edit | edit source]

Diagnosis of Berardinelli-Seip syndrome is based on clinical evaluation and confirmed through genetic testing. Key diagnostic features include the absence of adipose tissue, metabolic abnormalities, and characteristic physical features.

Management[edit | edit source]

There is no cure for Berardinelli-Seip syndrome, and treatment focuses on managing symptoms and preventing complications. Management strategies include:

  • Dietary modifications to control hypertriglyceridemia
  • Medications to improve insulin sensitivity
  • Regular monitoring of liver function and cardiovascular health

Prognosis[edit | edit source]

The prognosis for individuals with Berardinelli-Seip syndrome varies depending on the severity of symptoms and the effectiveness of management strategies. Early diagnosis and intervention can improve quality of life and reduce the risk of complications.

Also see[edit | edit source]

NIH genetic and rare disease info[edit source]

Berardinelli-Seip syndrome is a rare disease.


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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD