Xanthoma
A xanthoma is a cholesterol-rich deposit that can appear in skin, tendons, or soft tissues.
When to get help quickly: The lump itself is not usually urgent, but it should prompt medical review because it can be linked to high cholesterol or other metabolic problems that need treatment.
Common symptoms
People may notice yellowish bumps or plaques on the skin, especially around the eyes, elbows, knees, hands, or tendons. They are often painless.
When imaging helps
Imaging helps when a xanthoma is deeper, attached to a tendon, or needs to be distinguished from another kind of lump.
What radiology does
Imaging may help characterize deeper or tendon-based lesions and distinguish them from other masses.
What usually happens next
Management often includes evaluation of blood lipids and treatment of the underlying metabolic problem.
Seen this on your report?
Your doctor or the radiologist who wrote it can tell you what it means for you.