Drug-induced paraparotid fat deposition in patients with HIV: Case reports

Background. The treatment of patients with HIV is managed effectively with highly active antiretroviral therapy, but complications in the form of a lipodystrophy syndrome (LDS) often develop. Case Descriptions. The authors describe two patients who had bilateral parotid area fatty swellings, which are a manifestation of the fat redistribution seen in LDS. Fat hypertrophy, fat atrophy or both in other regions; dyslipidemia; and glucose abnormalities also were present. Conclusion and Clinical Implications. Although the LDS in patients with HIV is recognized visibly by fat redistribution, the syndrome includes dyslipidemia and insulin resistance. Dental visits give dentists the opportunity to recognize HIV-related cervicofacial fat alterations. For appropriate attention, referral to the patient's physician who is managing the HIV is indicated.