Repost. By Rachel | September 14, 2018

Xanthoma is a skin condition that occurs when fatty cells build up under the skin. This is a common condition, especially if you are an adult and have high blood lipids (fats). Your skin reacts to the substances that we intake ourselves, so it is important that we monitor our diet. If we have poor physical health, it can be very visible as side effects appear on the outer surface of the skin.

Causes

Xanthomas can vary in size, shape, and color. They often look like a fat bump underneath the skin. You may even start to see clusters form in certain areas of the body. These growths are most commonly found on the joints, hands, and feet. This condition is usually caused by high levels of blood lipids, or fats. However, this may be a symptom of underlying medical conditions such as:

• hyperlipidemia, or high blood cholesterol levels

• diabetes, high blood sugar levels

• hypothyroidism

• cholestasis, flow from bile ducts in the liver are slowly destroyed

• nephrotic syndrome, damage blood vessels in the kidneys

• hematologic disease, lipid disorder

You are at an increased risk of developing xanthoma if you have any of the medical conditions listed above. You are also more likely to develop this condition if you have high cholesterol levels.

Treatment

If xanthoma is a symptom of a medial condition, then the underlying cause must be treated first. Diabetes and cholesterol levels that are controlled are less likely to cause xanthoma. Other treatments for this condition include surgical removal, laser surgery, or a chemical treatment. The growths can reoccur even after treatment, as this condition is not one that can just go away if other elements of your body are not healthy. Talk to your doctor regarding treatment options.

Preventable?

Xanthoma may not be completely preventable due to its relationship with other health disorders. There are, however, steps you can take to lower your risk of developing this condition. It is very important that you maintain appropriate blood lipid and cholesterol levels. You can accomplish this by eating healthier foods, exercising regularly, and taking routine medications. Be sure to visit your doctor to get your cholesterol levels checked today!