Definition

Noun: A benign, yellowish skin lesion or nodule, typically appearing on the eyelids, neck, or back, caused by the accumulation of lipid (fat)-filled cells (macrophages) in the skin. Its presence can sometimes be associated with underlying disorders of lipid (cholesterol or triglyceride) metabolism.

Usage

The word "xanthoma" is a medical term used specifically to describe a type of dermatological condition. It is a countable noun.

Examples

• The dermatologist diagnosed the small, raised bumps on his eyelids as xanthomas.
• The presence of multiple xanthomas prompted the doctor to order a lipid profile test to check his cholesterol levels.
• Xanthoma is not typically painful but is often treated due to its cosmetic appearance and its potential link to systemic disease.

Advanced Usage

• "Eruptive xanthoma": A specific type characterized by the sudden appearance of multiple small, yellowish-red papules, often associated with high triglyceride levels.
• "Tendinous xanthoma": A type that presents as subcutaneous nodules on tendons, commonly the Achilles tendon, and is associated with familial hypercholesterolemia.
• The plural form is xanthomas or xanthomata.

Variants and Related Words

• Xanthelasma (noun): A specific, common form of xanthoma that appears as yellowish plaques on the eyelids.
• Xanthomatosis (noun): A condition characterized by the presence of multiple xanthomas, often indicating a systemic lipid disorder.

Synonyms

• Lipid deposit (in the skin)
• Cholesterol nodule (informal, descriptive)

Antonyms

• There is no direct antonym, as it is a specific medical condition. In a general sense, one might refer to "clear skin" or "normal skin."

Related Phrases/Idioms

There are no common idioms or phrasal verbs using this specific, technical medical term.

Noun

1. a skin problem marked by the development (on the eyelids and neck and back) of irregular yellow nodules; sometimes attributable to disturbances of cholesterol metabolism