Indications of high cholesterol may appear on the skin in the form of discolored growths. Varying in size from three inches to very small, Xanthelasma develops around the eyes. The condition is called Xanthoma when it appears on elbows, tendons, joints, hands, feet, knees and buttocks. Wherever it develops, it is cosmetically disfiguring. Xanthoma may also plague patients with physical discomfort. Causes of Xanthelasma and Xanthoma are not clearly understood, but when diagnosed, the bumps normally appear in patients with unsafe amounts of lipids in the system.
Indications
Appearing as yellow to orange bumps under the skin, some of these maladies form lesions with well-defined borders. Patients with Xanthoma may experience lesions that are itchy and painful.
Examination and a Biopsy
Unlike Xanthelasma, Xanthoma may require a biopsy of the tissue to confirm the fatty deposits are nothing more serious. Xanthelasma is easily identified by the doctor because of the location of the symptoms.
Controlling the Symptom
Controlling any further development of the fatty deposits causing Xanthelasma and Xanthoma means keeping cholesterol at ideal levels. Patients should work with their doctor to develop a healthier diet and exercise plan.
Removal Methods
Fatty deposits can be removed in several ways. Surgery is one option. Treating Xanthoma with trichloroacetic acid removes the unwanted growths. Using CO2, pulse-dye or Erbium-Yag laser provides patients with yet another choice for ridding the skin of the unsightly blotches. However, even after removing the fatty deposits, the condition can recur.
Reducing Chances of the Disorder
Reducing the chances of getting either Xanthoma or Xanthelasma in the first place requires keeping cholesterol blood lipids at healthy levels. Measured in milligrams (mg), cholesterol should be kept below 130. All metabolic disorders, including diabetes that affect cholesterol levels, need to be controlled. Diabetic and heart disease patients' goal is a cholesterol level less than 100 mg. Losing excess weight and reducing fat and cholesterol in the diet is another way to reduce your chances of developing Xanthoma or Xanthelasma.
Warnings
Attempting to remove these growths with over-the-counter methods is dangerous. A licensed physician should always remove these bumps. Follow the doctor's instructions after removal. Keeping the area clean with soap and water and avoiding use of makeup and creams until completely healed assuages complication risks. Bleeding, swelling, redness and pain after removal are all warning signs to call the doctor.
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