Accurate diagnosis and self-care support for women with lipoedema

Abstract

Lipoedema is a long term, progressive condition usually presenting as symmetrical enlargement of the legs and buttocks, and mainly affecting women. Distinct from obesity and lymphoedema, lipoedema is associated with an unusual distribution of diet-resistant inflammatory fat tissue. This article provides background to lipoedema diagnosis, and discusses self-care support for women with lipoedema.