ERUPTIVE XANTHOMA

This patient information on Eruptive Xanthoma is provided by John L. Meisenheimer, M.D. a board certified Dermatologist and skin care specialist based in Orlando, Florida. This information is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice or treatment of a dermatologist or other physician.

What is it?

Eruptive xanthoma is a peculiar disorder of the skin. It can occur at any age, but it is more common in adults. typically it appears as multiple yellow to red bumps which appear in “showers” on the skin.

What causes it?

Eruptive xanthomas are caused by tiny accumulations of fat droplets located in a specific type of skin white blood cell. This type of eruption has been associated with underlying medical conditions such as diabetes and disorders of the blood fats. I will need to run special tests to make sure there is no dangerous underlying medical condition.

Can it be cured?

If an underlying cause is found, treatment of the underlying disease may result in clearing of the xanthomas.

Will it spread?

New crops of eruptive xanthomas may continue to appear.

Is it contagious?

It is not contagious and you cannot “catch it” from anyone.