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Xanthoma - Symptom

Alternative Names

Skin growths - fatty; Xanthelasma

Symptoms:

A xanthoma looks like a sore or bump under the skin. It's usually flat, soft to the touch, and yellow in color. It has sharp, distinct edges.

Signs and tests:

Your doctor will examine the skin. Usually, your doctor can diagnose a xanthoma simply by looking at your skin. A biopsy of the growth will show a fatty deposit.

Xanthoma, eruptive - close-up

Xanthoma - close-up

Xanthoma on the knee

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

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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