Definition of Syndrome, lipodystrophy

Syndrome, lipodystrophy: A disturbance of lipid (fat) metabolism that involves the partial or total absence of fat and often the abnormal deposition and distribution of fat in the body. There are a number of different lipodystrophy syndromes. Some of them are congenital (present at birth) while others are acquired later. Some are genetic (inherited), others not. One lipodystrophy syndrome appears associated with the protease inhibitor drugs used in the treatment of AIDS. In this lipodystrophy syndrome, the face, arms and legs become thin due to loss of subcutaneous fat, which typically results in weight loss. The skin becomes dry.

The lips crack. . How the protease inhibitors induce this lipodystrophy syndrome is unknown.