Fatty deposits under the eyes that occur in the presence of elevated cholesterol levels may be caused by a condition known as xanthoma. Xanthomas are benign and typically do not require treatment, but may be removed for cosmetic reasons. See your doctor if you suspect you have a xanthoma, so that he or she can check your cholesterol levels.
Xanthoma
A xanthoma is a skin condition in which fat accumulates under the skin and on tendons. They appear as raised, painless, yellow bumps. They may vary in size from small bumps to greater than 3 in., and may appear as irregular shapes or rounded. Xanthomas can develop on any area of your body, however they most commonly form on the hands, feet, knees, elbows and buttocks.
A xanthelasma is a type of xanthoma that is found on the inner or outer eyelid. They are the most common form of xanthoma, according to "Clinical Dermatology," and are associated with an increased risk of death from atherosclerosis, even if cholesterol levels are normal.
Causes
Xanthomas may be caused be high levels of cholesterol in the blood or several metabolic conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia, diabetes, primary biliary cirrhosis and certain cancers, notes the University of Southern California Hospital. Xanthelasmas may or may not occur in the presence of high cholesterol.
Risk Factors
In addition to the medical conditions mentioned above, the risk for developing xanthomas increases with age.
When to Contact Your Doctor
You should call your doctor if you suspect you have a xanthoma, because it is associated with several medical conditions that may need to be treated by your doctor. Your doctor will usually be able to diagnose an xanthoma by physical examination, however a biopsy may be necessary. Your doctor may also run several tests, such as a cholesterol or glucose test, to determine the underlying cause.
Complications
Xanthomas are benign and not associated with an increased risk of cancer. Therefore removal is not necessary, but may be done for cosmetic purposes. Xanthomas may become so large that your skin or eye becomes disfigured, in which case you may want to have it removed.
Prevention
Check with your doctor to determine if your cholesterol levels are too high. If your levels are high, your doctor may recommend diet changes and/or prescribe medications to help lower your cholesterol. Remember to have your cholesterol levels checked regularly -- the American Heart Association recommends that adults age 20 and over get a fasting lipid profile done every five years.
References
- "Clinical Dermatology"; Thomas P. Habif; 2010
- University of Southern California Hospital: Xanthelasma and Xanthoma
- American Heart Association: Cholesterol Levels
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Xanthoma
