How is Dercum's disease treated?

General: Currently, there is no known cure for Dercum's disease. Treatment focuses on management of symptoms, especially reduction of pain.

Drugs: Many drugs commonly used to relieve pain (such as analgesics like NSAIDs or acetaminophen) do not appear to be effective in treating Dercum's disease.

Lidocaine: One drug that has been used to treat Dercum's disease effectively is lidocaine, which is commonly used as an anesthetic. Patients receiving lidocaine intravenously over a 30-90 minute period have reported relief from pain lasting several weeks. Additionally, lidocaine has been administered using a patch. Side effects of lidocaine may include a drop in blood pressure, abnormal heart rhythms, dizziness, or headache.

Surgery: Surgical removal of lipomas usually is effective in reducing pain for a patient. However, surgery is not considered a cure, as lipomas often grow back after being removed.

Liposuction: Liposuction (a surgical procedure used to remove fat from the body) may be used to treat Dercum's disease. Removal of fat often leads to a reduction in pain in patients and an improved quality of life.

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