Adult-Onset Acquired Partial Lipodystrophy Accompanied by Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Lipodystrophy is a group of metabolic disorders, possibly caused by autoimmune disease. In this report, we describe a case of adult-onset acquired partial lipodystrophy accompanied by rheumatoid arthritis without a family history. Interestingly, immunohistochemical staining revealed dense infiltration of IL-27-producing cells as well as MMP-7- and MMP-28-expressing cells, both of which have been reported to facilitate the development of autoimmune disease. Our present case might suggest possible mechanisms for acquired partial lipodystrophy.

Keywords

• MMP-7
• MMP-28
• Acquired partial lipodystrophy
• IL-27