Multiple symmetric lipomatosis: an unusual cause of childhood obesity and mental retardation.

Multiple symmetric lipomatosis (MSL), also known as Launois-Bensaude syndrome or Madelung's disease, is a rare disorder predominantly seen in middle-aged male patients. The disorder is characterized by large subcutaneous fat masses distributed around the neck, shoulders, and other parts of the trunk, often associated with nervous system abnormalities. A close relationship to alcoholism, metabolic disturbances and malignant tumours has been observed.