MedTerms Medical Dictionary

Xanthoma: Yellowish firm nodules in the skin frequently indicating underlying disease, such as diabetes, disorder of fats (lipid disorder or hyperlipidemia), or other conditions. A xanthoma is a kind of harmless growth of tissue.

Under the microscope, a xanthoma can be seen to be composed of lipid-laden foam cells. These cells, termed histiocytes, contain lipid material in their cytoplasm (the nonnuclear zone of the cell).

The word "xanthoma" is made up of "xanth-" from the Greek roots "xanthos" (yellow) and "oma" (swelling) = a yellow swelling. A xanthoma is a circumscribed yellow swelling, a yellowish nodule.

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Find a medical definition by using the A-Z listing (select a letter)

Copyright © 1996-2003 MedicineNet, Inc. All rights reserved.
MedicineNet, Inc. does not endorse any of the services or products offered on this page.

Information in the MedTerms Medical Dictionary is provided for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should not use this information for diagnosing or treating a medical or health condition. You should carefully read all product packaging. If you have or suspect you have a medical problem, promptly contact your professional healthcare provider.

Use the A-Z listing (select a letter) to find a definition

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z