$Unique_ID{BRK01104}
$Pretitle{Skin and Subcutaneous Tissue}
$Title{Diagnosis of High Blood Cholesterol in an Eye Examination}
$Subject{eyelid cholesterol xanthelasma}
$Volume{L-21}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Diagnosis of High Blood Cholesterol in an Eye Examination


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QUESTION:  I went to my eye doctor for a new glasses prescription, but after
the examination of only my eyes, came away with a diagnosis of high
cholesterol in my blood.  When I had my blood test done, it turned out that
the eye doctor was right.  He jokingly tells me it is the "magic of medicine"
but there must have been some clues.  Do you know what they might have been?
Trying to figure this out is more trouble than my new diet.

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ANSWER:  I am half inclined not to answer the question, and preserve a bit of
that mystery that has at least inspired you to a new healthful diet.  I can
think of three possible clues that could have been observed during an eye
exam.  The presence of small, flat, yellowish growths on your eyelids called
"xanthelasma" could have been the most noticeable.  They contain fatty
material and are often associated with high cholesterol.  A light colored
ring, or part of a ring, circling the cornea, called an "arcus senilis" is
another sign.  Last, the appearance of the back of your eye or fundus could
have offered another indication of your cholesterol problem.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
