What it means
A build-up of fat over the upper back (dorsocervical fat pad). It is seen with high levels of cortisol, either from the body (Cushing syndrome) or from long-term corticosteroid drugs, and with some HIV drugs. It often appears with a round face and fat around the middle.
For the nurse
Note it during skin and body assessment and ask about steroid use. Clients may be upset by body changes; listen and give accurate information.
At a glance
| Also written | buffalo humps, dorsocervical fat pad |
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Related terms
corticosteroid
A drug that acts like the hormones of the adrenal glands, used mainly to calm inflammation and the immune system.
cortisol
A steroid hormone made by the adrenal glands that helps control blood sugar, blood pressure, stress and inflammation.