Massive Localized Lymphedema: A Soft Tissue Process that May Present to Dermatologists

Abstract

Massive localized lymphedema (MLL) is a clinically and histologically distinct entity seen in morbidly obese patients. We describe two obese patients with MLL in the lower abdomen and suprapubic area. Biopsies showed characteristic histologic features of an expanded dermis with lymphangiectases, fibrotic septae and focal fat necrosis. One patient had long-standing hypothyroidism, an association previously reported. This disease is frequently complicated by recurrent cellulitis and may be amenable to surgery. Patients with MLL may present to dermatologists, and this disease has characteristic histopathologic findings that may mimic liposarcoma to the unaware dermatopathologist.