VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
Xanthomas are a group of skin lesions that result from the accumulation of lipids in the skin, often associated with dyslipidemia. In this case, the patient's symptoms and laboratory findings suggest a specific type of xanthoma related to elevated levels of triglycerides.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's presentation of multiple small, yellowish papules that coalesced to form larger clusters, along with elevated triglyceride levels, is characteristic of eruptive xanthoma. Eruptive xanthomas are a type of xanthoma that occurs in response to high levels of triglycerides, often seen in conditions like hypertriglyceridemia or type 4 hyperlipoproteinemia. The yellowish pigmentation of the creases of the palms is also a key feature of eruptive xanthoma.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Tuberous xanthoma is a type of xanthoma associated with elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, not triglycerides. It typically presents as a solitary, firm, yellowish papule, not a cluster of lesions.
**Option B:** Xanthelasma is a type of xanthoma that occurs on the eyelids, often in association with hyperlipidemia. It does not typically present as a cluster of lesions on the skin.
**Option C:** Eruptive xanthoma is a specific type of xanthoma that occurs in response to high levels of triglycerides, making this the correct answer.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Eruptive xanthoma is a key diagnostic clue for conditions like hypertriglyceridemia or type 4 hyperlipoproteinemia, which can increase the risk of pancreatitis and other cardiovascular events.
**Correct Answer:** C. Eruptive xanthoma.