Xanthoma

Xanthoma

Close-up view of a xanthoma on the skin

Xanthomas are non-cancerous (benign) skin lesions caused by the accumulation of fat in macrophage immune cells within the skin and other tissues. These growths may vary in size and can appear anywhere on the body, but are most frequently seen on the elbows, joints, tendons, knees, hands, feet, and buttocks. They can serve as indicators of underlying lipid metabolism disorders or other conditions leading to elevated levels of blood lipids.

Causes

Xanthelasma palpebra is a common type of xanthoma that appears on the eyelids or under the skin. Many things can cause Xanthomas in addition to elevated

Appearance

A xanthoma looks like a yellow to orange papule with defined borders. There may be several individual ones or they may form clusters.

Symptoms and signs

The xanthomas cause unsightly bumps and can cause itching, irritation and or ulceration.

Xanthoma histology

Investigations

Lipid profile, liver function, and metabolic panel, including blood sugar test for diabetes.

Treatment

If you have a disease that causes increased blood lipids, treating the condition may help reduce the development of xanthomas.

If the growth bothers you, your provider may remove it by surgery or with a laser. However, xanthomas may come back after surgery.

Prognosis

The growth is noncancerous and painless, but may be a sign of another medical condition.

Prevention

Treating the underlying cause such as elevated blood cholesterol or other causes.

See Also

• Hyperlipidemia
• Atherosclerosis
• Dermatology

References

• Davis, M.D., & Johnson, M. (2015). Xanthomas: Diagnostic and Therapeutic Implications. Journal of Dermatological Science.
• Robinson, J. (2018). Lipid Disorders and Skin: Xanthomas and More. Dermatology Clinics.

Xanthoma Resources
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