Abstract

Xanthelasma is a sharply demarcated yellowish deposit of fat underneath the skin, usually on or around the eyelids. While they are neither harmful nor painful, these minor growths may be disfiguring and can be removed.

A "xanthelasma" may instead be referred to as a "xanthoma" when becoming larger and nodular, assuming tumorous proportions. Still, "xanthelasma" is often classified simply as a subtype of "xanthoma".

Treatment

"Xanthelasmata" can be removed with a trichloroacetic acid peel, surgery, lasers or cryotherapy. Removal may cause scarring and pigment changes, but it is an uncommon side-effect of treatment.

Etymology

The word is derived from Greek "xanthos, ξανθός", "yellow" and "έλασμα, elasma", "foil". The plural is "xanthelasmata".