Eyelids as windows into the heart
People who develop yellow bumps on their eyelids often visit a dermatologist to get them removed. They may want to see a cardiologist as well.
A large study on this topic generated a lot of interest at the American Heart Association's annual meeting. Danish researchers found that folks diagnosed with xanthelasmata were 40% more likely than their fellow Danes to develop heart disease — and 51% more likely to have a heart attack — even after the researchers took established cardiac risk factors into account. In a surprise, half of the people who developed one or more xanthelasma had normal cholesterol levels, suggesting that these skin lesions might indeed be an independent sign of heart disease. But this preliminary research has to be confirmed before doctors will know for sure.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
