Xanthomas

Abstract

Xanthomas are lesions characterized by the accumulation of lipid-rich macrophages. They have been associated with disorders of lipoprotein metabolism, despite the fact that only a minority of individuals with such disorders will present with xanthomas. More than one clinical type may be present in a particular lipoprotein disorder. The most important principle in the treatment of xanthomas is to first detect the presence of an underlying hyperlipidemia and then proceed with diet and lipid-lowering drugs. Among the distinct clinical types, only xanthelasmas are mostly found in normolipemic patients and their treatment is based on surgical procedures or destructive modalities.