Multiple symmetrical lipomatosis in the neck

Abstract

Multiple symmetrical lipomatosis (Madelung's disease) is a very rare condition that is commonest in countries bordering the Mediterranean. The disease is associated with symmetrical unencapsulated fat deposits over the neck and upper trunk. We present the first reported occurrence in the Chinese. Although lesions can initially mimic a head and neck malignancy, management is essentially symptomatic, with conservative removals done as indicated clinically or for cosmesis.