what is the treatment for xanthomas

What is the treatment for xanthomas?

[BhumikaMD]

Hi,

Xanthomas may or may not be associated with underlying hyperlipidemia. Diagnosing and treating underlying lipid disorders is necessary to decrease the size of the xanthomas and to prevent the risks of atherosclerosis.

Treatment of the hyperlipidemia initially consists of diet and lipid-lowering agents such as statins, fibrates, bile acid–binding resins, probucol, or nicotinic acid. The lipid-lowering effects of these agents have been well documented, but few studies mention the efficacy of these drugs for resolving xanthomas.

Eruptive xanthomas usually resolve within weeks of initiating systemic treatment and tuberous xanthomas usually resolve after months, but tendinous xanthomas take years to resolve or may persist indefinitely.

The main goal of therapy for hyperlipidemia is to reduce the risks of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. In patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia, the goal is to prevent pancreatitis.

Let us know if you need any other information.

Regards.