Prepare for the HOSA Dental Terminology Exam. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each supplemented with hints and explanations. Get equipped for your test with confidence!

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Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of xanthoma?

  1. It occurs as yellow nodules

  2. It is associated with inflammation

  3. It typically appears in subcutaneous tissue

  4. It is a type of benign growth

The correct answer is: It is associated with inflammation

The correct answer identifies that inflammation is not typically associated with xanthoma, which is primarily characterized by its appearance and nature as a benign growth. Xanthomas are lipid-rich lesions that appear as yellow nodules and are usually found in the subcutaneous tissue. Their primary function is to indicate underlying metabolic disturbances, particularly those associated with lipid metabolism disorders, rather than being a manifestation of inflammation. In contrast, while xanthomas result from cholesterol accumulation in the skin, they do not exhibit the characteristics of inflammation, such as redness, swelling, or pain, which are typically involved in inflammatory processes. Thus, among the given choices, associating xanthoma with inflammation is the mischaracterization, making it the correct answer to the question.