XANTHELASMA
Xanthelasma is characterized by yellow papules and plaques, usually about the eyes, caused by the accumulation of lipid-laden macrophages in the skin.
- Approximately half of individuals exhibit abnormal cholesterol levels, often attributable to familial hypercholesterolemia or other underlying factors
- It is the most common xanthoma and is usually associated with hyperlipidemia.
Clinical
Soft, yellow papules and/or plaques on the upper inner eyelids are characteristic of xanthelasma. They may occur as an isolated finding or be associated with hyperlipidemia.
Workup
All patients should have a lipid profile.
Treatment
The most important intervention is to control the cholesterol so as to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease. One patient's xanthelasma completely disappeared after 10 years of oral statin therapy combined with dietary cholesterol restriction.
No treatment is needed for xanthelasma. Surgical removal may be performed.
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