Xanthoma
Definition
Xanthoma is a skin condition in which fat builds up under the surface of the skin.
Alternative Names
Skin growths - fatty; XanthelasmaCauses
Xanthomas are common, particularly among older adults and persons with high blood lipids.
Xanthomas vary in size. Some are very small, while others are bigger than 3 inches in diameter. They may appear anywhere on the body, but are most often seen on the elbows, joints, tendons, knees, hands, feet, or buttocks.
They may be a sign of a medical condition that involves an increase in blood lipids. Such conditions include:
- Diabetes
- Primary biliary cirrhosis
- Certain cancers
- Inherited metabolic disorders such as familial hypercholesterolemia
Xanthelasma palpebra is a common type of xanthoma that appears on the eyelids.
References
Goldman L, Ausiello D. Cecil Textbook of Medicine. 22nd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: WB Saunders; 2004.
Habif TP. Clinical Dermatology. 4th ed. St. Louis, Mo: Mosby; 2004.
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