Primary bone xanthoma of the inferior orbital rim

J Craniofac Surg. 2013 Jan;24(1):e45-6. doi: 10.1097/SCS.0b013e31826d004c.

Abstract

Primary bone xanthoma is an extremely rare benign bone tumor histologically characterized by mononuclear macrophage-like cells, abundant foam cells, and multinucleated giant cells. Xanthomas of the bone usually appear as a benign secondary manifestation of some diseases. Therefore, they are denominated primary xanthomas when the other diseases are discarded.We report a peculiar case of primary bone xanthoma of the inferior orbital rim in the absence of hyperlipidemic conditions. Surgical intervention was performed under local anesthesia via a subtarsal 1-cm incision. Histopathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of bone xanthoma. Primary bone xanthomas are extremely rare. Diagnosis of such lesions is challenging and requires both radiographic and histopathological features assessment. A careful work-up and a full lipid profile should be performed to rule out underlying diseases.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biopsy
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Orbit / pathology*
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed
  • Xanthomatosis / diagnosis*
  • Xanthomatosis / pathology
  • Xanthomatosis / surgery*