Multiple symmetric lipomatosis type 2 in females--report of two cases.

Two patients with features of multiple symmetric lipomatosis type 2 are presented. This particular disorder with a characteristic distribution of fat should be considered on differential diagnosis of obesity. Besides being rare, it may occasionally be unrecognized, especially in females. The etiology remains unknown; however, the association with high alcohol consumption is very strong. Several issues about the possible metabolic role of lipomatous adipose tissue have been discussed. Patients with multiple symmetric lipomatosis should be treated by liposuction or surgery instead of being submitted to diets.