Imaging review of lipomatosis of nerve: Radiological keys and challenges in its differential diagnosis

Abstract

Lipomatosis of nerve (LN) is a rare condition characterised by fibroadipose lesions affecting the peripheral nerves. It presents a complex clinical challenge, often associated with macrodystrophia lipomatosa. Various imaging techniques, specifically magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and ultrasound (US), are crucial for its diagnosis and precise monitoring. On MRI, LN appears as a lesion displacing surrounding structures, presenting as hypointense cable-like nerve bundles. On US, it has a ‘lotus root-like’ appearance. The wide range of clinical presentations of LN and the extensive array of differential diagnoses underscore the need for individualised diagnostic and treatment strategies. The aim of this article is to provide a thorough review of LN through illustrative images.