What is lipedema

Lipedema is a chronic, often hereditary, uncontrolled growth and enlargement of the fat cells in the arms, buttocks and legs that is possibly triggered by female hormones.

Lipedema is a pathological fat distribution disorder that causes pain and tightness and predominantly affects women. Three lipedema stages and four types of lipedema are differentiated. Three lipedema stages and four types of lipedema are differentiated.

Causes of lipedema

Specialists currently believe that one of the primary causes of lipedema is a hormonal change: The female hormone oestrogen leads to growth and enlargement of the fat cells.

Lipedema has to date only been scientifically verified to develop in the legs and arms. In 97 % of cases the legs are most often affected, particularly the thighs. But lipedema can also occur on the buttocks and hips.

In 31 % of all cases the typical signs of lipedema can also be seen on the arms of patients. The arms initially often do not have any symptoms and also do not need to be treated. If and when the arms become symptomatic over time cannot be predicted.