Xanthelasma palpebrarum (XP) is the most commonly encountered type of xanthoma and is classified as a type of localized plane xanthoma. It typically presents as yellowish macules or slightly elevated papules or plaques on the eyelids beginning in the fourth or fifth decade of life. XP involves the upper medial lids most prominently but may be more extensive, also involving the lower eyelids. The lesions are asymptomatic.

XP is approximately 3 times more common in women and does not appear to have any ethnic variation. Approximately half of patients with XP have a lipid disorder. While the majority of these cases occur in the setting of acquired hyperlipidemia, XP is also seen in the setting of type II hyperlipoproteinemia. XP has been shown to be an independent risk factor for atherosclerosis and, consequently, ischemic cardiovascular disease.