Definition

Noun: - A medical condition characterized by the widespread appearance of xanthomas, which are yellowish deposits of cholesterol and fats under the skin, particularly on the elbows and knees. This condition is often associated with an underlying disorder of lipid (fat) metabolism.

Usage

• The term is used in medical contexts to diagnose and describe a specific dermatological manifestation of systemic lipid disorders.
• It functions as a singular, uncountable noun when referring to the condition itself.

Examples

• The patient's skin lesions were diagnosed as cholesterosis cutis, prompting further investigation into her lipid profile.
• Cholesterosis cutis is a cutaneous sign that can indicate serious metabolic issues like hyperlipidemia.

Advanced Usage

• The condition is sometimes referred to by its synonym, , especially when describing the generalized, widespread form.
• Diagnosis of cholesterosis cutis typically involves a skin biopsy to confirm the presence of cholesterol-laden foam cells.

Variants and Related Words

• Xanthoma (n): An individual skin lesion or plaque caused by cholesterol deposits.
• Xanthomatosis (n): A synonym for the condition of having multiple xanthomas, often used interchangeably with cholesterosis cutis.
• Dyslipidemia (n): A disorder of lipid metabolism, which is the common underlying cause of cholesterosis cutis.

Synonyms

• Xanthomatosis
• Generalized tuberous xanthoma

Notes on Meaning

This term has a single, specific medical meaning. It combines "cholesterol" (referring to the lipid involved) and the Greek-derived suffix "-osis" (indicating a diseased or abnormal condition), with "cutis" (Latin for skin). It literally means "a cholesterol condition of the skin."

Noun

1. widespread xanthomas (especially on elbows and knees); often associated with a disorder of lipid metabolism