Lipoatrophy semicircularis induced by trauma.

Lipoatrophy semicircularis is thought to be a rare condition characterized by band-like horizontal depressions of the skin typically involving the lower limbs. Previous literature has suggested that repetitive trauma to the lower limbs could explain this condition; however, no direct causal link has ever been clearly established. There have also been several reports where no preceding history of trauma could be found. In our series we report seven cases of lipoatrophy semicircularis representing over one-third of the staff in a particular office. We propose that the most logical explanation for the indentations present in these individuals is repetitive trauma to their thighs by the sharp edge of the desks. The consistent nature of the distance between the floor and the horizontal indentations on the lower limbs despite differences in height weight and body mass index support this theory. It is likely that this condition is more common than initially thought.