Bilateral epibulbar xanthomas--a case report

Cornea. 2010 Feb;29(2):225-7. doi: 10.1097/ICO.0b013e3181a3c419.

Abstract

Purpose: To report bilateral epibulbar xanthomatous lesions in an adult with a normal serum lipid profile and no cutaneous or systemic features of a histiocytic disease.

Methods: Clinicopathologic report.

Results: A 44-year-old man presented with gradually enlarging yellow epibulbar masses in both eyes. The lesions had recurred after excisions performed 2 years previously. Systemic evaluation was normal. Excisional biopsies were performed, and histological examination revealed numerous foamy histiocytes with scattered Touton giant cells and lymphocytes. No recurrence was observed after 1 year of follow-up.

Conclusion: Xanthomatous epibulbar lesions are exceedingly rare and may occur as an isolated finding. Evaluation should be directed toward detecting underlying non-Langerhans cell histiocytic diseases and disorders of lipid metabolism. Recurrent lesions may be successfully treated by surgical excision.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Conjunctival Diseases / pathology*
  • Conjunctival Diseases / surgery
  • Eye Diseases / pathology*
  • Eye Diseases / surgery
  • Functional Laterality
  • Giant Cells / pathology
  • Histiocytes / pathology
  • Humans
  • Lymphocytes / pathology
  • Male
  • Visual Acuity
  • Xanthomatosis / pathology*
  • Xanthomatosis / surgery