Lipomatosis (Dercum’s Disease) Management in Beverly Hills, CA

Pioneering Treatment Strategies for Rare and Painful Fatty Tissue Disorders

A doctor examines a patients leg with lipodystrophy.

UNDERSTANDING ADIPOSIS DOLOROSA

The Challenge of Living with Dercum’s Disease

Dercum’s Disease, also known as Adiposis Dolorosa, is a rare and often misunderstood fatty tissue disorder. It is characterized by the growth of multiple painful subcutaneous lipomas (fatty lumps) or widespread, painful fatty tissue. This condition is significantly more prevalent in women, affecting them 5 to 30 times more often than men, and while it is more common in obese individuals, it frequently occurs in non-obese individuals as well.

Because the pain associated with Dercum’s Disease can be debilitating and the etiology (cause) remains unclear in the broader medical community, many patients struggle for years to find a professional who recognizes their symptoms. Patients often feel overlooked as they deal with the chronic discomfort of painful fatty tissue that does not respond to traditional weight loss or standard pain management.

An overweight person in a bright blue shirt grabbing a hold of fat tissue around his waist

A LEADER IN RARE DISEASE MANAGEMENT

Expert Care in Beverly Hills, CA

Stuart L. Silverman MD, FACP, FACR, is a pioneer in the development of treatment strategies for Dercum’s Disease. Based in Beverly Hills, CA, Dr. Silverman provides a professional environment for patients who have struggled to find a professional who recognizes their symptoms, makes an accurate diagnosis, and can treat the disease nonsurgically.

By focusing on nonsurgical management, we aim to address the systemic nature of Lipomatosis without the risks or recovery time associated with multiple invasive procedures. Our practice is dedicated to providing a space where rare diseases are met with academic rigor and clinical compassion.

Our Professional Evaluation Process

Step 1: Specialized Evaluation

We begin with a thorough clinical assessment to differentiate Dercum’s Disease from other lipomatosis disorders. We listen to your history, documenting the location, frequency, and nature of the painful fatty tissue to establish a clear baseline.

Step 2: Individualized Strategy Development

Since the cause of Dercum’s is unclear, Dr. Silverman uses an empirical, research-backed approach. We develop a management plan that may include nonpharmacologic interventions, medical therapies, and metabolic support tailored to your specific presentation.

Step 3: Ongoing Monitoring and Support

Managing a rare disease requires a long-term partnership. We provide professional, continuous support to adjust your treatment as new research emerges, ensuring you have access to the latest pioneered strategies in the field.

WHY CHOOSE OUR PRACTICE

Excellence in Rare Tissue Research

Pioneering Research

Dr. Silverman is at the forefront of developing new strategies for a disease that many clinicians are unfamiliar with.

Academic Authority

With a background from Princeton and Johns Hopkins, Dr. Silverman brings a high professional standard to the management of rare fatty tissue diseases.

Multisystemic Expertise

We understand how Dercum’s interacts with other conditions like fibromyalgia or metabolic issues, providing a "whole-person" perspective.

Rear view of senior couple walking down in park and chatting

ANSWERS TO YOUR CONCERNS

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly is Dercum’s Disease?

Dercum’s Disease is a rare condition characterized by painful growths of fatty tissue (lipomas) just under the skin. The pain can be localized to the lumps or spread throughout the fatty tissue itself.

Who is most commonly affected by this condition?

Women are affected 5 to 30 times more frequently than men. While there is a higher prevalence in individuals with a higher BMI, it is important to note that non-obese individuals can also develop Dercum’s Disease.

What causes these painful lipomas to form?

The exact etiology or cause of Dercum’s Disease is currently unclear. This is why seeking a specialist like Dr. Silverman, who is pioneering treatment strategies, is essential for effective management.

Is surgery the only option for lipomatosis?

Not necessarily. While surgical removal of lipomas is an option, Dr. Silverman focuses on developing comprehensive medical and nonpharmacologic strategies to manage the pain and systemic nature of the disease without relying solely on surgery.

How can I schedule a consultation for Dercum's Disease?

Patients in the Beverly Hills area or those traveling for specialized care can call our office at 310-358-2234 to request an evaluation with Dr. Silverman.

TAKE CONTROL OF YOUR HEALTH

Contact Us Today for Your Consultation

If you are struggling with the pain of Dercum’s Disease, partner with a medical leader who is actively searching for better answers. Call us today at 310-358-2234 to schedule your consultation.

Explore All Of Our Services

To provide you with the most comprehensive care, we offer specialized evaluation and management across these core clinical areas. Select a service below to learn more about our professional approach in Beverly Hills, CA.

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• Osteoporosis • Fibromyalgia • Chronic Fatigue & Long Haul COVID • Mast Cell Activation (MCAS) • Osteoarthritis • Lipomatosis (Dercum’s Disease)