Introduction: Madelung's disease is characterized by benign, non-encapsulated accumulations of fat in a symmetrical manner. Although rare, symmetrical lipomatosis involving the tongue exclusively has been previously reported. Here another case is presented of Madelung's disease involving the tongue.
Case report: A 57-year-old woman was referred with the diagnosis of Madelung's disease, with slight difficulty in swallowing, dysarthria and dyspnoea while sleeping due to tongue swelling. Clinical examination revealed multiple, large disfiguring soft masses involving neck, upper arms and hips. There was enlargement of the tongue with bilateral protrusions and buccal displacement of the teeth. The masses were soft and non-tender. Bilateral partial glossectomy was performed under general anaesthesia. Histology revealed adipose tissue, interspersed within the lingual musculature.
Discussion: Lipomas in Madelung's disease are characterized by multiplicity, non-encapsulation and invasiveness. Over the years, the fat deposits enlarge significantly, become cosmetically deforming, and cause dyspnoea and dysphagia in advanced cases. The aetiology of benign symmetrical lipomatosis is still unknown. It is often accompanied by liver dysfunction probably due to alcoholism. Treatment is limited to surgical removal of the fatty tissue, in patients with a severe cosmetic deformity causing psychological stress, and in patients with dyspnoea or dysphagia if there is restriction of the aerodigestive tract.