Cholesterol deposits, also known as xanthomas, are little deposits of fats that sometimes appear on the body. They tend to be yellow, soft and slightly raised bumps, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center, and can occur on any area of the body, but most often appear on the elbows, joints, tendons, knees, hands, feet or buttocks. Xanthelasma palpebra, a type of xanthoma that appears on the eyelid, can occur without an underlying condition, and may not be associated with elevated lipids.
Causes
The primary cause of cholesterol deposits is a high cholesterol level. Although cholesterol occurs naturally in our bodies, other factors, called secondary factors, can cause cholesterol levels to become elevated. Poor diet, lack of physical activity, certain medications and obesity can negatively increase the amount of cholesterol in your body and increase your risk of developing cholesterol deposits. The University of Maryland Medical Center notes the presence of cholesterol deposits may indicate conditions that involve an increase in blood lipids, including diabetes, certain cancers, biliary cirrhosis and inherited metabolic disorders.
Symptoms
Cholesterol deposits present as a small sore or bump under the skin. Xanthomas are flat, yellowish and soft with distinct edges. There rarely are any symptoms associated with high cholesterol and most people do not realize they have a cholesterol imbalance until a blood test is performed as part of a routine medical test, according to Patients Medical. However, cholesterol deposits can form if your cholesterol levels are extremely elevated and left untreated.
Warning
While cholesterol deposits themselves are non-cancerous and painless, they may indicate a more serious underlying condition. Not addressing the issue of high cholesterol or cholesterol deposits can lead to more extreme medical issues such as cardiovascular disease, heart disease and stroke. Patients Medical notes that the presence of cholesterol deposits are mostly associated with high cholesterol due to genetic issues.
Risk for Children
According to the American Heart Association, people can inherit genes from their family that cause a higher level of cholesterol to occur naturally in their bodies. Children whose family has a history of high cholesterol or heart disease can be predisposed to having high cholesterol levels and should be monitored for high blood cholesterol and the presence of cholesterol deposits.
The University of Maryland Medical Center notes that the term for a condition passed down through families in which a person has high levels of "bad" cholesterol at birth is familial hypercholesterolemia, and is caused by a gene defect. This can lead to atherosclerosis at an early age.
Prevention/Treatment
The American Heart Association recommends getting your cholesterol checked every five years. If you have elevated or high cholesterol levels, you can take steps to lower it and prevent cholesterol deposits from forming. Eating a heart-healthy diet, engaging in regular physical activity and avoiding tobacco smoke are a few lifestyle changes that you can control.
If you are prescribed medication, work with your doctor to understand how the medicines affect your body and any side effects.
