Xanthoma

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

(Redirected from Xanthomata)

Xanthoma[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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

Xanthoma histology
Xanthoma histology

Investigations[edit | edit source]

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

Treatment[edit | edit source]

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[edit | edit source]

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

Prevention[edit | edit source]

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

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]

  • 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.



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