Xanthelasma


Xanthelasma or xanthelasmata are deposits of cholesterol (fat) that usually accumulate on and around the eyelids. In most cases small semi-solid deposits are found on all 4 eyelids. They are white to yellow in colour and are more common in people of Asian or Mediterranean ancestry and also in women. It is possible that these deposits can be passed down through families, so called inherited disease, however the vast majority are not.

Over half of all xanthelasmata are linked to diseases such as diabetes mellitus and high blood cholesterol, which are both damaging to our circulatory or blood system. It is possible for the lesions to be removed, often by surgery or chemical peels, however this can leave scars and cause a slight discolouration of the skin.

Unfortunately, some individuals with xanthelasma are more likely to get other physical signs and symptoms, such as cholesterol deposits in other areas of the body. This can lead to problems with movement when cholesterol is deposited in muscles and tendons and sometimes scarring due to deposition in the skin.


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