Once fat is accumulated intra-abdominally as part of the lipodystrophy syndrome, is it a permanent condition or can it be reduced/removed with appropriate diet and exercise and/or medication? And if medication can be used, what kind? Thanks.

There is some indication that there can be some control and possibly reversal of this type of fat accumulation. Diet strategies are primarily of the diabetic diet type. Exercise has been used with some promise in reducing central fat accumulations. Very low dose growth hormone has been under investigation for its ability to reduce these fat deposits. Metformin (an insulin-sensitizing oral antidiabetic drug) has shown some effect on reducing central fat accumulation.

The treatment strategy you decide on should include diet and exercise. As for medications that could be considered, much will depend on your current risk factors and the risk vs. benefit in each of the choices that are out there. That is a very individualized decision that will require the involvement of health care team members.

Best wishes!