Lipodystrophy in Central Asia: A Regional Literature Review with a Case Series of Congenital and Acquired Generalized Lipodystrophy

Marzhan Rakhimzhanova, Bikadisha Bimurat, Aimira Jangashkarova, Assel Issabayeva, Aigul Durmanova, Alina Alzhaxina, T Ivanova-Razumova, Г. К. Рапильбекова

Metabolites, 2026

Full text Open access: Gold Metadata (CSL-JSON)
DOI 10.3390/metabo16090678
Data confidence 70 medium
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Abstract

Background: Lipodystrophy syndromes are a group of rare disorders characterized by partial or generalized loss of adipose tissue, severe insulin resistance, and multiple metabolic complications. Despite increasing global awareness, lipodystrophy remains underrepresented in the published literature from Central Asia, and its true regional prevalence remains unknown. This study presents a case series of patients from Central Asia with congenital and acquired generalized lipodystrophy, reviews the existing regional literature, and determines challenges and future directions to improve lipodystrophy care in this region. Methods: We conducted a targeted regional literature review focusing on published reports from five Central Asian countries: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. A literature search was performed in electronic databases, including PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science, from the earliest available records to 20 July 2026. Results: Reported cases of lipodystrophy from Central Asia were extremely scarce. Our cases also highlighted important barriers to effective care, including limited disease awareness and access to specialized therapies. Discussion: These findings indicate that lipodystrophy is underrepresented in the literature, and the true disease burden and extent of underdiagnosis in Central Asia remain unknown. Improving clinical awareness, developing international collaborations, widening access to genetic testing, and establishing multidisciplinary referral systems could significantly enhance patient outcomes. Conclusions: Lipodystrophy remains an underreported, rare condition in Central Asia. Our findings emphasize the urgent need for improved awareness, regional cooperation, development of expert clinics, and better access to specialized diagnostic and therapeutic resources to optimize care for affected patients.