Case Studies and Insights into Lipedema and Dercum's Disease - Emily Iker

At the 2021 AVLS (American Vein and Lymphology Society) Conference, this fascinating presentation highlighted case studies and photos of patients with lipedema as well as those with Dercum’s Disease.
The unique markers of lipedema, a loose connective tissue disease, are revealed along with the results of an ultrasound study before and after Lympha Press therapy.
This visually rich webinar also reviews Dercum’s Disease, a rare disorder characterized by multiple, painful growths of fatty tissue (lipomas). The lipomas mainly occur on the trunk, the upper arms and upper legs and are found just below the skin (subcutaneously) but also can be found deeper in the body coupled to muscle, tendons, ligaments, or bone by connective tissue. Pain associated with Dercum’s disease can often be severe.
About the speaker:
Dr. Emily Iker is the Director of Lymphedema Center in Santa Monica. She is a Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Specialist focusing on diagnosis, management, and treatment of lymphatic disorders.
Certified by Professor A. Leduc, Ph.D., a world-renowned leader in the research and treatment of Lymphedema, she is also a member of many Lymphological Societies and was awarded the Honorary Membership of the Lymphological Association of J.E. Purkyne in 1999. Past President of American Society of Lymphology, she is also board certified by the American Boards of Holistic Medicine. Dr. Iker teaches and lectures nationally and internationally and understands lymphedema on a personal level.

[@dianetakis3712]

It would be helpful if there was a source where radiologists could look to see all the MRI and Ultrasound images of Dercum's Disease MRIs with identifying markers. I had an MRI of my arm where lipomas were clearly visible infiltrating muscle yet the radiologist reported he could not see any. Two other physicians were able to see them clearly once I pointed them out. And, surgery co firmed the presence of lipomas and nodular fat pad. Radiologists really need sources more readily available so they know what to look for.

[@sndygskylr]

At 74, pretty good health, I must be at stage 1.75. Small tiny veins cover my enter legs. Sore to press on. Feel knots/bumps under my legs. Worn no shorts for over 30 years. It’s truly depressing and very stressful especially since I used to be a pretty lady. Tonight I’ve watched 4 videos on Lymphedema. I truly need to see the right kind of doctor. Q: what specialty would that be? I can’t thank you enough for the informative videos. Thank you so much. God bless you all!

[@moduqueRN]

Very helpful presentation!

[@OneBlueFroggy]

Thank you Dr. Iker for getting the information together and sharing with the world, this little known disease and complications, that gets shoved under the rug and leads to fat shaming, when all we need are informed Drs and specialists ! I am from Canada and cannot get a diagnosis to save my soul ! I need to know where to go, which specialist to see ? Anyway thanks again for all your good works ! Take care ! 🦵 💔 🇨🇦

[@CocoShade]

Brilliant video. But what now?

[@Iamfr0ggy]

I have semeiotical lipoma on my arms leg back and belly, use a wheelchair full time now since getting covid and think I have lumps in my ribs. 37 m uk

[@tknzdworldfirstidentylinke6404]

Do we have the video on pelvic compression syndrome?

[@annidzik2071]

What are the mens voices in the background? Very distractive!

[@CocoShade]

I had it from childhood. I had huge legs always. I was skinny when I was one year old but never after. I am hypermobile, my skin is supper soft and I can not bear touching some material. I can not fit my arms and legs in most clothes. Also it Hurst when I have tight clothes.