xanthogranulomas

Xanthogranulomas are benign, self-limiting inflammatory lesions that can occur in various parts of the body, most commonly in the skin and eyes. These lesions are characterized by the accumulation of lipid-laden macrophages and foam cells, along with lymphocytes, plasma cells, and multinucleated giant cells. While they can appear at any age, juvenile xanthogranulomas (JXG) are the most frequent type, typically presenting in infants and young children.

In the skin, xanthogranulomas often manifest as small, reddish-brown to yellowish papules or nodules. They are usually asymptomatic and tend to regress spontaneously over months to years. In the eye, they can affect the iris, ciliary body, or orbit, potentially leading to complications such as glaucoma or strabismus if left untreated. Systemic involvement is rare but can occur, affecting organs like the liver, spleen, or central nervous system.

The exact cause of xanthogranulomas is not fully understood, but they are thought to be a reactive process rather than a neoplastic one. Diagnosis is typically made through clinical examination and confirmed with a biopsy showing characteristic histopathological features. Treatment is generally not required for cutaneous lesions due to their tendency to resolve on their own. However, ocular or systemic xanthogranulomas may necessitate intervention, such as surgical removal or corticosteroid therapy, to prevent or manage complications.