DERCUM DISEASE Meaning and
Definition
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Dercum Disease, also known as Adiposis Dolorosa or Anders Disease, is a rare medical condition characterized by the excessive accumulation of adipose tissue or fatty deposits in various parts of the body. Named after the American neurologist Francis Xavier Dercum, it primarily affects middle-aged women, although cases in men and children have also been reported.
The main symptom of Dercum Disease is the presence of painful lipomas, which are fatty growths that occur beneath the skin. These lipomas can grow to significant sizes and may cause severe discomfort, tenderness, and sensitivity to touch. Additionally, individuals with Dercum Disease often experience various associated symptoms such as fatigue, mood disturbances, insomnia, cognitive impairment, and generalized weakness.
The exact cause of Dercum Disease remains unknown, although it is believed to have a multifactorial origin involving genetic, hormonal, and metabolic factors. The condition is often diagnosed by ruling out other possible causes of similar symptoms, and imaging studies like magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) may be used to identify the presence and location of lipomas.
Treatment for Dercum Disease focuses on managing symptoms and typically includes a combination of pain management strategies, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, or other pain relievers. Other therapeutic options, including physical therapy, weight management, and occasionally surgery to remove large lipomas, may also be considered. Patient support groups and counseling can also provide valuable emotional and psychological support to individuals affected by Dercum Disease.
Common Misspellings for DERCUM DISEASE
- sercum disease
- xercum disease
- cercum disease
- fercum disease
- rercum disease
- eercum disease
- dwrcum disease
- dsrcum disease
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- derxum disease
- dervum disease
Etymology of DERCUM DISEASE
The word "Dercum Disease" is named after Dr. Frances Dercum, an American physician who first described the condition in the late 19th century. Dr. Dercum published a detailed study on the disease in 1892, which helped raise awareness and understanding of the condition. As a result, the medical community and subsequent literature referred to the disorder as "Dercum Disease" or simply "Dercum's". The terminology has been retained to honor Dr. Dercum's contributions to the study and recognition of this rare disorder.
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