A buffalo hump, or dorsocervical fat pad, can develop when fat collects on the back of your beck. Learn about causes, symptoms, and treatment
A buffalo hump, also called a dorsocervical fat pad, is a hump-like swelling on the upper back between the shoulder blades. It occurs due to excessive fat accumulation on the back of the neck. Causes may include:
- Certain medications such as corticosteroids (prednisone, hydrocortisone, cortisone) and some medications used to treat HIV/AIDS (particularly older medications)
- Obesity (a buffalo hump may be seen along with generalized fat deposition)
- Cushing’s syndrome (a condition in which there is excess cortisol production in the body)
- Genetic predisposition
- Madelung’s disease (a condition in which there is an unusual fat buildup around the neck, shoulders, upper arms, trunk, thighs, and hips)
- Certain tumors, such as tumors of the pituitary gland or cortisol-producing tumors
Generally, a buffalo hump is itself a harmless condition. In some cases, however, it may be a sign of an underlying serious condition such as a tumor of the adrenal or pituitary gland. It’s therefore important to seek medical attention to rule out other conditions.
If you believe the buffalo hump developed after you started taking certain medications, talk to your doctor before stopping your medications.
What are symptoms of a buffalo hump?
Buffalo humps generally are not associated with any other symptoms. Most people seek medical attention because of cosmetic concerns. However, in some cases symptoms may be related to underlying conditions such as high cortisol levels. Symptoms may include:
- Round or moon-shaped face
- Facial redness or flushing
- Abdominal striae or stretch marks
- Hirsutism (excess hair growth on the face and other parts of the body)
- Acne
- Easy bruising
- Thin skin
- Excessive thirst
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Mood changes
- Weakness
- Decreased libido
- Frequent urination
Other problems that may accompany a buffalo hump include high blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, and weak bones (osteoporosis), which can cause an increased risk of fractures and abnormal curvature of the spine (scoliosis or kyphoscoliosis). Such symptoms shouldn’t be ignored and may require urgent medical attention.
How is a buffalo hump treated?
Treatment of a buffalo hump may not be necessary unless the underlying reason for the hump is a disease that requires treatment. In such cases, treatment is dependent on the cause and may include changes in diet or exercise, surgical treatment of underlying tumors, or hormonal therapy.
- If medications are responsible for the hump, your doctor may give you another medication or change the dose. Do not stop medications or adjust doses yourself without consulting your doctor.
- Cushing’s syndrome may require prescription medications or surgery.
- Pituitary or adrenal tumors may require chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or surgery.
- Your doctor may advise weight reduction through physical activity and dietary changes.
- Your doctor may recommend cosmetic surgery to remove the abnormal fat deposition.