Xanthelasma and Xanthoma

Pictures & Images

See all Pictures & Images

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors

Xanthomas are common skin disorders, particularly among older adults and persons with elevated blood lipids (fat levels).

Xanthomas are deposits of fatty materials under the surface of the skin ranging in size from very small to more than 3 inches in diameter. They may be a symptom of underlying metabolic disorders that are associated with an increase in blood lipids, including diabetes, primary biliary cirrhosis, some types of cancer, and inherited metabolic disorders including familial hypercholesterolemia (inherited tendency to high cholesterol levels). They can appear anywhere on the body, but commonly appear on the elbows, joints, tendons, knees, hands, feet, or buttocks.

Xanthelasma palpebra is a common type of xanthoma that appears on the eyelids.