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Xanthoma

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Definition:

Xanthoma is a skin condition in which fat builds up under the surface of the skin.

Alternative Names:

Skin growths - fatty; Xanthelasma 

Causes, incidence, and risk factors:

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.

• Review Date: 4/16/2007
• Reviewed By: Michael S. Lehrer, M.D., Department of Dermatology, University of Pennsylvania Medical Center, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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