Familial Partial Lipodystrophy

The lipodystrophies are rare disorders characterized by insulin resistance and the absence or loss of body fat. The 4 subtypes of lipodystrophy are characterized by onset and distribution. Partial lipodystrophy is rare, with loss of fat from the extremities and excess fat accumulation in the face and neck; recognizing this phenotype and subsequent referral for endocrinologic care may improve outcome and reduce mortality.