What is a xanthoma?
Xanthoma is a condition in which fatty growths appear under the skin.
Xanthoma is common in the following areas of the body:
- Joints (especially the knee and elbow);
- Hand;
- Buttocks;
- Ankles.
They vary in size, for example, the growth can be very tiny or as large as a grape; They have a yellow or orange color. They can be visually noticeable and perceived as a flat bump resembling a mole.
Usually, they do not cause pain, although in some clinical cases, the patient complains of itching or discomfort.
Xanthoma itself is not dangerous, but the disease that caused it is worth noting and treating.
The course of treatment is individual, for example, if xanthoma is a symptom, the causative disease must be cured. Surgical intervention, laser treatment or chemical treatment are used to remove xanthoma directly. Keep in mind that xanthoma can recur, so these methods do not always cure the diagnosis 100%.
Xanthoma cannot always be prevented, but certain methods can reduce the risk. For prevention, we recommend:
- If you have a history of hyperlipidemia or diabetes, follow the course prescribed by your doctor;
- You should inform your doctor if you experience any side effects from medication;
- Regularly check your blood cholesterol levels;
- It is necessary to monitor blood lipids;
- A healthy diet;
- Regular exercise;
- Blood tests to assess your general health.
Source:
https://www.healthline.com/health/xanthoma#risks
