A To Z of Health – “X” is to know about Xanthoma

Let’s take an overview of Xanthoma

Xanthoma can be described as a condition in which greasy and full of fat lumps develop underneath the skin. These lumps don’t have any specific place to grow and these can appear anywhere in the body. These can also be found on some of the common places in the body like joints (especially the knees and elbows), feet, hands and buttocks.

Xanthomas don’t have any definite size. They can be of the size of a pin or big as grapes. They can vary in size and can grow smaller and larger. They often look yellow or orange in colour and won’t usually. However, they can give you itchiness and irritation

What causes Xanthoma?

The main reason for Xanthoma is high levels of blood lipids or fats. This can be a warning sign of an underlying medical condition like:

• Hyperlipidaemia- High lipid levels ( cholesterol, triglycerides)
• Diabetes– High blood sugar levels
• Hypothyroidism- Underactive thyroid

There can be many other causes of Xanthoma including primary biliary cirrhosis (a problem of draining bile from the liver), cancer, and hematologic disease (a problem in the blood and blood-forming organs). Xanthoma itself isn’t hazardous; it is just a cause of the underlying important medical condition. The problem behind it needs to be addressed as soon as possible in order to prevent any destruction. Xanthelasma is one of the common types of Xanthoma that affects the eyelids.

How can Xanthoma be treated?

If you have found Xanthoma to be a symptom of a medical condition, then it is important to treat the underlying cause of it. The underlying cause is one of the great ways to get rid of its growth. Diabetes and cholesterol levels when controlled properly, the chances of causing Xanthoma reduced.

There are various other treatments for Xanthoma like surgical removal, laser surgery, or chemical treatment. But all of these are not a permanent solution. Xanthoma lumps can return after some time.

Footnote

The reason behind Xanthoma can become serious if not treated properly. If your reason for Xanthoma is high cholesterol levels, you can also do some lifestyle changes like exercising, eating healthy foods, skipping processed junkies and many others to lower down your levels and treat it properly. It is advisable to talk to your doctor to treat the underlying issue.