Pseudosarcoma - massive localized lymphoedema in morbidly obese - a rare entity: Case report.

2012

**Editors note: massive localized lymphedema is generally always in the legs if a morbidly obese patient has it, this is why I wanted to put this piece in our Leg Lymphedema blog. Pat - blog editor

Narayanarao T, Suvarchala A, Krishnababu G.

Source

Andhra Medical College, Chief Surgeon, King George Hospital,Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, India.

Abstract

INTRODUCTION:

Massive localized lymphoedema (MLL) first described in 1998 by Farshid and Weiss. Usually MLL present like huge pedunculated mass and appear like sarcoma hence called Pseudosarcoma. Morbid obesity is a growing epidemic in our society. Morbid obesity is usually associated with hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, dermatological complications like Acanthosis nigricans, skin tags, leg ulcers, edema, lymphoedema, plantar hyperkeratosis and massive localizedlymphoedema (MLL) is one of the complications of morbid obesity. Pseudosarcoma is due to derangement of lymphatic channels secondary to excessive deposition of adipose tissue.

PRESENTATION OF CASE:

We report a patient afflicted with this unique disorder presented with huge mass arising from monspubis in morbidly obese individual with body mass index (BMI) 55.

DISCUSSION:

Massive localized lymphedema presenting like pseudosarcoma in morbidly obese individuals is rare. Awareness of this disease is essential to avoid misdiagnosis as soft tissue neoplasm. It is a term used to describe a benign over growth of lymhoproliferative tissue in morbidly obese patients. Because of its size patients have difficult to do daily activities. Histopathologically characterized by dilated lymphatic channels with fibrotic and edematous tissue, without evidence of malignancy. Patient seeks treatment only if there is huge swelling causing discomfort, complications like excoriation, wound break down occur. The treatment of choice is complete excision.

CONCLUSION:

Surgical treatment is effective if done along with bariatric surgery. Functional rehabilitation was achieved. No recurrence was observed within the follow up period of twenty months and BMI was reduced to 28.

PMC