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Hump behind the shoulders
Definition:
A lump of fat on the back of the neck (cervicodorsal).

Alternative Names:
Buffalo hump

Considerations:
A buffalo hump by itself is not diagnostic of any one condition. It must be considered in light of other signs, symptoms, and tests.
Common Causes:
  • extended use of some steroids (glucocorticoids such as prednisone, cortisone, and hydrocortisone)
  • extreme obesity
  • hypercortisolism (caused by Cushing's syndrome)
  • some drugs used for AIDS (reason unclear)
  • osteoporosis may cause curvature of the spine in the neck (kyphoscoliosis)
Home Care:
If a buffalo hump is due to medication, ask your health care provider about your drug. NEVER CHANGE MEDICATION WITHOUT CONSULTING YOUR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER.

For extreme obesity, diet and exercise can help you to lose weight.
Call your health care provider if:
  • there is an unexplained buffalo hump.
What to expect at your health care provider's office:
The medical history will be obtained and a physical examination performed.

Medical history questions documenting your symptom in detail may include:
  • What medications are you taking?
  • Are you overweight?
  • How old are you?
  • Have you been evaluated for osteoporosis?
  • What other symptoms are present?
Diagnostic tests that may be performed include:
Review Date: 9/8/2001
Reviewed By: Sheila Feit, M.D., Department of Endocrinology & Metabolism, North Shore University Hospital, Manhasset, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network
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