Drug-induced lipodystrophy

Drug-induced lipodystrophy is a medical condition characterized by abnormal or degenerative conditions of the body's adipose tissue. A side effect of some pharmaceutical drugs, it is a form of lipodystrophy and can be a significant adverse effect of treatment.

Causes

Drug-induced lipodystrophy can be caused by a number of drugs. These include insulin, protease inhibitors, glucocorticoids, and growth hormone therapy. The condition is most commonly associated with antiretroviral therapy for HIV.

Symptoms

The symptoms of drug-induced lipodystrophy can vary depending on the specific drug and the individual patient. However, common symptoms include lipoatrophy (loss of subcutaneous fat), lipohypertrophy (gain of subcutaneous fat), and metabolic complications such as insulin resistance, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of drug-induced lipodystrophy is primarily based on the patient's medical history and physical examination. Laboratory tests may be used to confirm the diagnosis and assess the severity of the condition.

Treatment

Treatment for drug-induced lipodystrophy typically involves discontinuing or changing the offending drug, if possible. Other treatments may include liposuction, plastic surgery, and management of metabolic complications.

See also

• Lipodystrophy
• Antiretroviral therapy
• Insulin resistance
• Dyslipidemia