Lipomatosis (/ˌlɪpəʊməˈtəʊsɪs/) is a medical condition characterized by an abnormal increase in fatty tissue in the body. The word is derived from two Greek terms - "lipos" meaning fat and "matos" meaning lump. The suffix "osis" indicates an abnormal condition or disease. The spelling of "lipomatosis" follows the rules of English phonetics with the "o" pronounced as "oh" and the "a" as "uh". Knowing IPA phonetic transcription allows accurate spelling and pronunciation of complex medical terms such as "lipomatosis".
"Lipomatosis" is a medical term used to describe a condition characterized by the excessive growth or development of fatty tissue in various areas of the body. Derived from the Latin words "lipo" meaning fat and "matosis" meaning an abnormal growth, lipomatosis refers to the abnormal proliferation of fat cells. It typically presents as multiples of benign, non-cancerous growths known as lipomas, which are soft, rubbery masses formed by the accumulation of adipose tissue beneath the skin.
The condition can manifest in different forms, including familial multiple lipomatosis (FML), where numerous lipomas emerge on the trunk, limbs, or head; diffuse lipomatosis, which is characterized by an extensive, non-encapsulated infiltration of adipose tissue in specific areas such as the neck, arms, or thighs; and angiolipomatosis, involving the proliferation of both fat cells and blood vessels.
While the exact cause of lipomatosis remains unclear, genetic factors, hormonal imbalances, trauma, and obesity have been associated with its development. Lipomatosis is generally benign and does not pose any significant health risks, except when the lipomas compress surrounding structures and cause discomfort or cosmetic concerns.
Treatment for lipomatosis is primarily focused on managing symptoms and can include surgical removal of lipomas if they cause pain, limitations in movement, or psychological distress. However, the condition often presents with a chronic course, and new lipomas may continue to develop over time. Regular monitoring and evaluation by a healthcare professional are therefore necessary to ensure proper management and address any potential complications.
Liposis, an overgrowth of fatty tissue, either local or general.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
The word "lipomatosis" is derived from Greek roots. It is composed of two components: "lipo-" and "-matosis".
1. "Lipo-" is derived from the Greek word "lipos" (λίπος), which means "fat" or "grease". It is used in medical terminology to refer to various structures related to fat.
2. "-Matosis" is a suffix derived from the Greek word "mátōsis" (μάτωσις), which means "a condition" or "a state". It is often used in medical terms to indicate a pathological condition or abnormal state.
Therefore, "lipomatosis" can be defined as a medical term that describes an abnormal condition or excessive growth of fatty tissue.