Abstract

Eight women with uncomplicated progressive partial lipodystrophy and two with progressive lipodystrophy and diabetes mellitus were studied. Plasma triglyceride levels were significantly elevated in the subjects with uncomplicated lipodystrophy; serum cholesterol, phospholipid, and plasma free fatty acid levels were normal. Paper electrophoresis showed increases in serum pre-beta lipoprotein and chylomicra. Thyroid function, as measured by radioiodine and stable iodine studies, was normal. Some subjects had a raised basal metabolic rate. Intravenous glucose tolerance was normal in patients with the uncomplicated disease.