Etymed
xanthoma
Definition
A yellowish tumor or growth, typically composed of lipid-laden macrophages, often associated with lipid metabolism disorders
Clinical context
A 45-year-old male presents with multiple yellowish nodules on his tendons and skin. He has a history of hyperlipidemia and recently experienced chest pain. Laboratory studies reveal extremely elevated cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Physical examination shows xanthomas and xanthelasmas. The patient is diagnosed with familial hypercholesterolemia.
Mnemonic
Xanthomas are yellow tumors from lipid deposits - X for 'yellow' and 'lipid' in lipoprotein disorders