[Xanthelasma palpebrum : mortality risk factor or not ?].
A 44-year old patient presents at the emergencies for a cut above his right eyebrow. Inspection reveals a bilateral bilateral xanthelasma palpebrum (XP). The blood analysis shows a normal cholesterol level: is this enough reassurance as to the patient's cardiovascular and mortality risk? This article reviews evidence showing that XP - a cholesterol papule on the eyelids - is associated with an increased risk for mortality, myocardial infarct and severe atherosclerotic disease, independently from the patient's lipid profile.