LAUSR

Xanthelasmas represent the most common form of xanthomas. These superficial lipid deposits present as yellow-orange papules and plaques on the eyelids. Although benign, they can be cosmetically disfiguring and cause psychosocial distress. Xanthomas are usually diagnosed clinically, although a biopsymay be necessary in equivocal cases. Histopathology demonstrates dermal foamy histiocytes containing intracellular lipids.Medical management alone usually is not sufficient in providing any tangible therapeutic benefit for xanthomas. Various treatment modalities, including excision, electrodessication, laser, and chemical destruction using topical trichloroacetic acid, are used. However, these do not always produce suitable cosmetic results. Full-thickness surgical excision was the initial treatment of choice historically. Depending on the location and defect, patients may require a blepharoplasty, medial epicanthoplasty, local flaps, and/or grafts. The drawbacks associatedwith surgery include scarring, ectropion, and dyspigmentation. Furthermore, patients who are on anticoagulation or have a lack of redundant periorbital skin may not be optimal surgical candidates.