Symptoms & Signs
A xanthoma looks like a sore or bump under the skin. It’s usually flat, soft to the touch, and yellow in color. It has sharp, distinct edges.
Diagnosis & Tests
Your health care provider will examine the skin. Usually, a diagnose of xanthoma can be made by looking at your skin. A biopsy of the growth will show a fatty deposit.
You may have blood tests done to check lipid levels, liver function, and for diabetes.
Xanthoma, eruptive – close-up
Xanthomas are firm, raised waxy-appearing papules (bumps) which may occur on the trunk, arms, and legs. The lesions may be skin-colored, pink or even yellow. The presence of this type of skin lesion�may be�associated with abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood.
Review Date : 8/26/2009
Reviewed By : Kevin Berman, MD, PhD, Atlanta Center for Dermatologic Disease, Atlanta, GA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network; Linda Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington School of Medicine. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
