Bilateral Achilles Tendon Xanthoma in an 18-Year-Old Patient

Abstract

Background: Xanthomas are rare, non-neoplastic lesions which occur due to defect in the LDL receptors leading to their accumulation in tendons and synovium. The prevalence of heterozygous familial hypercholesterolaemia (HFH) is approximately 1 in 500. Aim: To study a rare case of bilateral achilles tendon xanthoma and its functional outcome. Case Presentation: We presented a case of xanthoma over posterior aspect of both lower third legs just above the heel in an 18-year-old female, and diagnosis was confirmed by clinical examination ultrasound and MRI, for which subtotal resection was planned and further followed up. Postoperative treatment consisted of six weeks long leg cast immobilization. After 10 weeks the patient started walking without any difficulties. Conclusion: Subtotal resection of achilles tendon xanthoma has given a good functional outcome. There is no need for reconstruction of tendon in every case.

A Rare Case of Bilateral Achilles Tendon Xanthomas in a Teenager, Successfully Treated with Tendon Sparing Technique

“…The Achilles tendon xanthoma is generally a benign albeit uncommon occurrence, which is associated with elevated cholesterol levels [ 8 ] and coronary artery disease [ 2 ]. The familial hypercholesterolemia with an autosomal dominant inheritance is characterized by an elevated LDL-cholesterol and tendon xanthomas.…”