Summary about Disease
A buffalo hump, also known as dorsocervical fat pad (DCFP), is an abnormal accumulation of fat on the upper back, specifically at the base of the neck. It's not a disease in itself, but rather a symptom of an underlying condition or a result of certain medications or lifestyle factors. It can affect appearance, cause discomfort, and potentially indicate a more serious health problem.
Symptoms
The primary symptom is a visible and palpable bulge of fatty tissue on the upper back, at the base of the neck. Other potential symptoms, depending on the underlying cause, may include:
Back pain
Neck pain
Headaches
Muscle weakness
Fatigue
High blood pressure
Elevated blood sugar
Changes in skin (thinning, easy bruising)
Moon face (roundness of the face)
Increased thirst and urination
Causes
The most common causes of a buffalo hump include:
Cushing's syndrome: A hormonal disorder caused by prolonged exposure to high levels of cortisol.
Glucocorticoid medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids like prednisone.
Obesity: Generalized weight gain can contribute to fat accumulation in the upper back.
Lipodystrophy: A condition involving problems with how the body stores and uses fat; sometimes associated with HIV medications.
Osteoporosis: Sometimes, vertebral compression fractures can alter the shape of the upper back, creating a hump-like appearance, though this is more a kyphosis than a true buffalo hump.
Rarely: Other conditions can contribute, though they are less common.
Medicine Used
Treatment focuses on addressing the underlying cause. Specific medications will depend on the diagnosis:
Cushing's Syndrome: Medications to reduce cortisol production (e.g., ketoconazole, metyrapone, osilodrostat) or surgery to remove a cortisol-producing tumor.
Glucocorticoid-Induced: Gradual tapering off of the medication, if possible, under a doctor's supervision. Alternative medications may be explored.
HIV-Associated Lipodystrophy: Medications to manage metabolic complications.
Other causes: Medication for the underlying condition.
Symptomatic Treatment: Pain relievers, physical therapy, or other therapies for associated symptoms like back pain.
Liposuction: In some cases, liposuction may be considered to remove the excess fat, but it does not address the underlying cause and the fat may return.
Is Communicable
No, a buffalo hump is not communicable. It is not caused by an infectious agent and cannot be spread from person to person.
Precautions
Precautions depend on the underlying cause. Some general precautions include:
Healthy Lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise.
Medication Management: Taking medications as prescribed and under the supervision of a doctor. Never abruptly stop taking corticosteroids.
Regular Check-ups: Routine medical check-ups can help detect underlying conditions early.
Stress Management: Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques.
Bone Health: Ensuring adequate calcium and vitamin D intake to maintain bone health, especially if taking corticosteroids.
How long does an outbreak last?
A buffalo hump is not an "outbreak." It is a gradual accumulation of fat. The duration of its presence depends on the underlying cause and how effectively it is treated. If the underlying cause is addressed and managed, the size of the buffalo hump may decrease over time, but complete resolution is not always guaranteed. If the underlying cause persists, the buffalo hump can remain or even worsen.
How is it diagnosed?
Diagnosis involves:
Physical Examination: A doctor will examine the hump and ask about medical history, medications, and symptoms.
Medical History: A detailed review of past illnesses and medications.
Blood Tests: To measure hormone levels (e.g., cortisol), blood sugar, and other markers.
Imaging Tests:
MRI or CT scan: To evaluate the adrenal glands or pituitary gland, particularly if Cushing's syndrome is suspected.
DEXA scan: To assess bone density if osteoporosis is suspected.
Urine Tests: To measure cortisol levels.
Dexamethasone Suppression Test: To evaluate cortisol production and diagnose Cushing's syndrome.
Timeline of Symptoms
The timeline of symptom development varies greatly depending on the underlying cause:
Cushing's Syndrome: Symptoms often develop gradually over months or years.
Glucocorticoid-Induced: Develops over months or years of consistent use of the medication.
Obesity: Develops over time with weight gain.
Lipodystrophy: Can develop over months to years after starting certain HIV medications.
Osteoporosis: The hump associated with vertebral compression fractures can appear relatively quickly after the fractures occur.
Important Considerations
A buffalo hump is often a sign of a more serious underlying medical condition that needs to be diagnosed and treated.
Self-treating with over-the-counter remedies or alternative therapies is not recommended.
Early diagnosis and treatment of the underlying cause are crucial to prevent complications.
If you notice a buffalo hump, consult a doctor for a thorough evaluation.
Long-term monitoring may be necessary, even after treatment, to manage the underlying condition and prevent recurrence.
The appearance of a buffalo hump can be emotionally distressing; seeking support from family, friends, or a therapist can be helpful.