Related Experiment Video
Updated: Nov 2, 2025

Author Spotlight: Advancing Tendon Research by Developing Mouse Assembloids to Understand Cellular Mechanisms
Published on: March 22, 2024
Possible Neoangiogenesis in Achilles Tendon Xanthoma with Familial Hypercholesterolemia: A Novel Approach to Achilles
Tetsu Tanaka1, Kazuyuki Yahagi1, Osamu Wada2
1Division of Cardiology, Mitsui Memorial Hospital, Japan.
Abstract:
Achilles tendon xanthoma (ATX) is one of the typical features of familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). The morphological evaluation of ATX by X-ray radiography is widely recognized; however, the utility of other imaging modalities remains unclear. We herein report two cases of FH in which Doppler ultrasound imaging demonstrated a microvascular flow in ATX that only rarely could be observed in normal Achilles tendons. Neoangiogenesis accompanies chronic inflammation and it may play an important role in the deposition of cholesterol crystals leading to ATX. In addition to the morphological evaluation of ATX, the assessment of neoangiogenesis may therefore be essential for the evaluation of ATX.
Related Concept Videos
Atherosclerosis III: Management
Regulation of Angiogenesis and Blood Supply
Atherosclerosis I: Introduction

