Xanthelasma

Xanthelasma (or xanthelasma palpebrarum) is a sharply demarcated yellowish collection of cholesterol underneath the skin, usually on or around the eyelids. Although not harmful or painful, these minor growths may be disfiguring and can be removed surgically. The plural is "xanthelasmata". They are common in people of Asian extraction and those from the Mediterranean region. Xanthelasmata can be removed surgically (scarring possible), or with laser or with cryotherapy, both of which can cause scarring and pigment changes. Because of the hereditary component, they may or may not indicate high blood levels of cholesterol. Where there is no family history of xanthelasmata they usually indicate high cholesterol and may correlate with a risk of atheromatous disease (cholesterol building up in arteries). The root of the word is from Greek xanthos, ξανθος, "yellow".

Associations

• high cholesterol levels (specifically familial hypercholesterolemia)
• primary biliary cirrhosis
• Menopause
• Diabetes

See also

• Xanthoma

External links

• MedlinePlus Encylopedia 001447
• eMedicine oph/610
• UAB

Reference

• Lang, Gerhard K Ophthalmology Thieme. Stuttgart. 2000.