Xanthelasma is a common, noncancerous skin condition marked by yellowish, soft plaques that develop on or around the eyelids. These deposits are made up of cholesterol and other fats that accumulate under the skin. While xanthelasma itself is harmless and usually painless, it can be a visible sign of underlying lipid abnormalities or cardiovascular risk. The condition can affect people …

Xeroderma Pigmentosum, often abbreviated as XP, is a rare inherited genetic disorder that affects the body’s ability to repair DNA damage caused by ultraviolet radiation. As a result, people with this condition are extremely sensitive to sunlight and other sources of ultraviolet light. Even limited sun exposure can cause severe skin damage. XP usually becomes apparent in early childhood. Without …

Xerophthalmia is an eye condition caused by a deficiency of vitamin A, leading to dryness of the conjunctiva and cornea. Vitamin A is essential for maintaining healthy vision and the normal function of the eye’s surface tissues. When levels are insufficient, the eyes cannot produce enough moisture, resulting in progressive damage. Xerophthalmia is more common in developing regions and primarily …

Yaws is a chronic bacterial infection that mainly affects the skin, bones and joints. It is caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum pertenue, which is closely related to the bacterium that causes syphilis. Yaws is not a sexually transmitted infection. The disease is most common in warm, humid, tropical regions, particularly in parts of Africa, Southeast Asia, the Pacific Islands …

Yeast diaper rash is a common skin condition that affects infants and young children who wear diapers. It occurs when a type of fungus called Candida, which normally lives on the skin in small amounts, grows excessively in the warm, moist diaper area. This overgrowth leads to inflammation and irritation of the skin. Yeast diaper rash often develops after a …

A yeast infection is a common fungal infection caused by an overgrowth of yeast, most often Candida albicans. Yeast normally lives on the skin and inside the body in small amounts without causing harm. When the balance of microorganisms is disrupted, yeast can multiply and lead to infection. Yeast infections most commonly affect the vagina, mouth, skin folds, and diaper …

A yeast infection under the breast is a common skin condition caused by an overgrowth of yeast, most often Candida species. This type of infection is also known as intertrigo with secondary yeast involvement. It develops in warm, moist areas where skin folds rub together, creating an ideal environment for yeast to grow. The area beneath the breasts can easily …

Yellow fever is a serious viral infection transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, primarily Aedes and Haemagogus species. The disease is most commonly found in parts of Africa and South America. Yellow fever is named after the jaundice, or yellowing of the skin and eyes, that can occur in severe cases due to liver damage. The illness …

A yellow jacket sting occurs when a yellow jacket, a type of aggressive wasp, injects venom into the skin through its stinger. Yellow jackets are commonly found in many regions and often live in nests near the ground, in walls, or in outdoor structures. Unlike bees, yellow jackets can sting multiple times, making encounters particularly painful and sometimes dangerous. For …

Yellow nail syndrome is a rare condition that affects the nails, lungs, and lymphatic system. It is named for the yellow discoloration that develops in the fingernails and toenails. In addition to nail changes, the condition is often associated with breathing problems and swelling caused by fluid buildup, known as lymphedema. Yellow nail syndrome can occur at any age but …