Stanford University study links eyelid deposits to heart attack risk

A study led by researchers at Stanford University has identified a significant link between xanthelasma—yellowish lipid deposits on the eyelids—and an increased risk of major cardiovascular and cerebrovascular events.

Published in the journal ‘Atherosclerosis’, the research analyzed health data from approximately 36,000 individuals, consisting of 17,925 people diagnosed with xanthelasma and a control group of 17,925 people with presbyopia. The study found that during the first year of follow-up, the rate of heart attacks was 1% among those with xanthelasma compared to 0.35% in the control group. Similarly, the incidence of stroke was 0.95% for the xanthelasma group versus 0.3% for the control group, while transient ischemic attacks (TIA) occurred at a rate of 0.6% compared to 0.19%.

These skin lesions occur when immune cells called macrophages accumulate cholesterol and other fats. While xanthelasma is not always associated with high blood cholesterol levels, its presence may serve as a visible warning sign of underlying atherosclerosis, the progressive buildup of plaque in the arteries that often develops without symptoms until a medical emergency occurs.