Multidisciplinary diagnostic dilemma in differentiating Madelung's disease——the value of superb microvascular imaging technique:A case report

BACKGROUND Madelung’s disease, also known as multiple symmetrical lipomatosis, is a rare, underrecognized disorder of fat metabolism that results in unusual accumulation of subcutaneous fat deposits around the neck, shoulders, upper arms, trunk, hips, and upper thighs. Our case demonstrates the importance of differential diagnosis and the value of a superb microvascular imaging technique for suspecting and confirming Madelung’s disease. Timely diagnosis and alcohol abstinence could prevent the progression of growing fatty masses and prevent surgery.CASE SUMMARY A 62-year-old male was admitted to the Rheumatology center complaining of symmetric subcutaneous tumors in the area of the parotid and submandibular salivary glands, small soft masses in the occiput and upper third of the forearm, rashes on calves. A high titer of rheumatoid factor and low concentrations of serum complements were detected. The high-end ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging examinations of all affected areas of the soft tissues showed predominantly adipose tissue(lipomas) without suspicion of liposarcoma. The biopsy from the small salivary gland revealed no pathology. After evaluating the patient’s clinical presentation(symmetrical lipomatosis, cirrhosis, gynecomastia, anemia, hyperuricemia), Madelung’s disease, type I, along with the psoriatic rash and psoriatic arthritis and secondary liver cirrhosis were established.CONCLUSION Madelung’s disease consists of many co-occurring disorders imitating and overlapping with other conditions. Ultrasonography is the first choice for suspecting and confirming symmetrical lipomatosis.