Xanthelasma

What is Xanthelasma?

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Xanthelasma is soft, yellow flat papules or plaques and arise symmetrically on upper and lower eyelids. Although the exact cause of xanthelasma is still unclear, however, it is definitely indicate of a lipid metabolism disturbance. There are several underlying disorders and typically associated with an elevated cholesterol level. In other words, xanthelasma (palpebrarum) is the accumulation of lipids on the eyelids and inner canthi. It is a significant skin condition that occurs as a result of hyperlipidemia, atherosclerosis, and coronary artery disease (Raj et al., 2022). 

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Treatment

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Xanthelasma can be treated with Short-Wave Diathermy using 'taping' or 'scrape' methods with various sterile needle sizes, depending on lesion sizes. Repeat treatment usually require every fortnightly. 

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Other treatments such as focal Trichloroacetic Acid (TCA) is also effective method in xanthelasma management (Malekzadeh et al., 2023). At Skinderm Aesthetics, we combine Short-Wave Diathermy with focal TCA for best results.  

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Dietary and lifestyle suggestions for xanthelasma patients generally coming from patient's doctor with prescription medication. Patient with xanthelasma should attempt to decrease their calories count, exercise and improve their diet. 

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References

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Malekzadeh, H., Ormseth, B., & Janis, J. E. (2023). A Practical Review of the Management of Xanthelasma palpebrarum. Plastic and reconstructive surgery. Global open, 11(5), e4982. https://doi.org/10.1097/GOX.0000000000004982

 

Rai, A., Karki, S., Prasad Sah, S., Narayan Kamat, L., & Pradhan, M. (2022). Dyslipidemia in Patients with Xanthelasma Palpebrarum Visiting the Department of Dermatology of a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study. JNMA; journal of the Nepal Medical Association, 60(250), 529–532. https://doi.org/10.31729/jnma.7485

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