Madelung disease, benign symmetrical lipomatosis, is a rare disorder of unknown etiology. It is characterized by the accumulation of fat deposits around the neck and upper body. It is often associated with glucose intolerance, liver disease, and malignant tumors of the lungs. This disease normally affects middle-aged males with a history of alcohol abuse. Surgical removal of the lipo- matose mass is the treatment of choice. A case of Madelung disease in a 53-year old man with hepatopathy and respiratory failure is presented.

        Key words: Benign symmetrical lipomatosis - Hepatopathy - Madelung disease - Respiratory failu- re.