What is a Xanthelasma
Xanthelasma, or xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP), is a benign, yellowish growth that forms near the corners of your eyelids. These growths result from cholesterol deposits accumulating under the skin. While xanthelasmas themselves are harmless, their presence can indicate underlying conditions such as diabetes, hyperlipidemia (high cholesterol), or thyroid problems. Additionally, individuals with xanthelasmas may have a higher likelihood of developing heart disease, heart attacks, atherosclerosis, or high cholesterol in the future.
Who is affected by xanthelasma?
Approximately half of those with xanthelasmas have elevated cholesterol levels, often due to genetic factors or liver diseases. However, the other half do not exhibit high cholesterol. Risk factors include being female, overweight, smoking, having diabetes, high blood pressure, or a family history of high cholesterol or xanthelasma. Xanthelasmas can develop between ages 20 and 70, with most cases occurring between 35 and 55. Despite being the most common type of xanthoma (cholesterol deposits on the skin), xanthelasmas affect only about 1% of the population.
Symptoms and Causes:
Xanthelasmas appear as yellow patches around the eyelids and can be flat or bumpy, soft or firm, and sometimes uncomfortable. They may be caused by inherited high cholesterol, diabetes mellitus, weight gain, thyroid issues like hypothyroidism, inflammation, or excessive alcohol consumption. A blood test can confirm high cholesterol, which is often linked to the presence of xanthelasmas.
Diagnosis and Tests:
A healthcare provider can diagnose xanthelasma by visual inspection of the eyelids. Further tests may be conducted to check cholesterol levels, thyroid function, blood sugar, and liver function.
Management and Treatment:
Xanthelasmas do not resolve on their own and may require professional removal methods such as liquid nitrogen cryotherapy, surgery, laser surgery, radiofrequency ablation, chemical peels, or surgery using extreme heat. These treatments are effective, though multiple sessions may be needed, and xanthelasmas often recur. Recovery time varies, with some side effects subsiding in a few days and others, like skin discoloration, taking a couple of months to resolve. Working with a doctor to lower cholesterol levels can help reduce the chances of recurrence.