Xanthoma

What Is Xanthoma?

Xanthoma is also called xanthelasma or described as fatty skin growths. It results when certain fats accumulate under the skin. These growths can appear anywhere, but typically develop on the joints (especially the knees and elbows), feet, hands, and buttocks.
A xanthoma can vary in size. It looks like a flat bump under the skin and sometimes appears yellowish. It usually does not cause any pain. If the xanthoma is large, it may make you feel self-conscious about your appearance.
The condition is usually a symptom of an underlying problem with high levels of blood lipids, or fats. These underlying conditions can include:

• diabetes
• hyperlipidemia: high blood cholesterol levels
• metabolic disorders: These are genetic conditions affecting body’s ability to break down chemicals and maintain life. Examples include porphyria, Krabbe disease, or congenital adrenal hyperplasia.
• cancer: a type of condition in which malignant cells grow at an uncontrolled rate
• cirrhosis: scarring of the liver

Xanthoma itself is not dangerous, but the underlying medical condition causing it needs to be addressed. There is also a type of xanthoma that appears on the eyelids. However, this is not always linked to high blood lipid levels. It may appear even when there is no medical condition present.