Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma (NXG) is a very rare disease of the immune system that most often shows up in the skin, especially around the eyes. In this disease, the body’s clean-up cells (called histiocytes and giant cells) gather in the skin and form firm yellow-orange patches or lumps. Over time, these patches can become hard, scar, and sometimes ulcerate (break down). NXG is “multisystem,” which means it can also involve organs such as the eye structures, lungs, liver, spleen, and others, although the skin is the most common and the easiest place to see it. A key, well-proven link is an abnormal protein in the blood called a monoclonal paraprotein (often IgG-kappa). Many people with NXG have this protein now or will develop it later, and a smaller number go on to develop blood cancers such as multiple myeloma or other lymphoproliferative disorders.JAMA NetworkPMCEyeWiki
Necrobiotic xanthogranuloma (often shortened to NXG) is a rare, long-lasting inflammatory skin disease that can also involve tissues around the eyes and, less commonly, other organs. People usually notice firm, yellow-orange to red plaques or nodules, often around the eyelids. Under the microscope, doctors see granulomas (organized clusters of immune cells) with areas of “necrobiotic” collagen (damaged collagen), cholesterol clefts, and giant cells. Many patients also have an abnormal protein in the blood called a monoclonal immunoglobulin (a “paraprotein”), most often IgG-kappa. NXG is not contagious and not a skin cancer, but it does require careful, long-term follow-up because it can be linked to blood disorders such as monoclonal gammopathy of undetermined significance (MGUS) or, less often, multiple myeloma. NaturePMCPubMed+1
NXG is a long-lasting (chronic) inflammatory skin disease in which parts of the skin’s collagen die back (“necrobiotic”), and fatty, cholesterol-like material gets trapped there. The immune system then builds “granulomas” (tight clusters of clean-up cells) around those areas. Under the microscope, doctors see foamy histiocytes, cholesterol “clefts” (tiny needle-like gaps where cholesterol crystals once sat), and big “giant cells” (including Touton-type cells). These are classic, tell-tale features of NXG and help the pathologist confirm the diagnosis.PubMedDermNet®
The exact cause is not fully known. The most supported idea is that an abnormal antibody (the paraprotein) binds to fats (lipoproteins) in the blood and skin. That mix attracts clean-up cells (macrophages) and sets off inflammation. Over time, this repeated inflammation leads to collagen breakdown, cholesterol deposition, and the granulomas we see in biopsies. This also explains why many patients show paraproteinemia (an abnormal antibody) even when their cholesterol tests are normal.PMCEyeWiki
Types
There is no single official “staging” system, but in day-to-day care, doctors often describe NXG by patterns. These patterns are helpful because they guide what to look for and what to test.
Periorbital (around-the-eye) NXG
Firm, yellow-orange, sometimes red-brown plaques around the eyelids and eyebrows. These can pull the lids outward (ectropion), scar, ulcerate, or even affect vision if deeper eye tissues become involved.JAMA NetworkEyeWikiGeneralized cutaneous NXG
Similar plaques or nodules on the trunk and limbs, not just the face. The lesions can be large, indurated (very firm), and may scar or ulcerate over time.hematologyandoncology.netUlcerating NXG
Any NXG lesion that has broken down. Ulceration signals more aggressive, deeper disease and needs closer monitoring for infection, pain control, and eye protection if near the lids.JAAD Case ReportsNon-ulcerating (indurated plaque) NXG
The skin remains intact but thick, firm, and bound down. These lesions may be less painful but can still distort nearby structures (like eyelids).JAMA NetworkNXG with strong periorbital involvement
This is common and important because the eyelids, ocular surface, and orbit can be affected. Complications can include ptosis, restricted eye movements, keratitis, scleritis, and—rarely—vision loss if inflammation is severe.JAMA NetworkSystemic NXG
Skin plus internal organ involvement (e.g., oropharynx, lungs/bronchi, liver, spleen, heart, and others). This pattern calls for broader testing and periodic surveillance.PMCParaproteinemia-associated NXG (the classic form)
The majority of patients fit here and have a monoclonal gammopathy (often IgG-kappa). Only a minority progress to overt myeloma, but long-term follow-up is essential.JAMA NetworkNXG without detected paraproteinemia (rare)
A small group have typical skin findings and biopsy proof of NXG but no detectable monoclonal protein at first evaluation. They still need periodic re-checks because the protein can appear later.The Hospitalist CommunityEarly inflammatory vs. late fibrotic NXG
Early lesions look more red-orange and active; late lesions look more scar-like with atrophy and telangiectasias. This “time-course” view helps set expectations.JAMA NetworkOcular NXG (eye-structure involvement)
When the disease extends beyond eyelid skin into the orbit or ocular tissues, patients can have double vision, pain, or decreased vision, and they need coordinated care with ophthalmology.JAMA Network
Causes
Important note: doctors do not yet have a single proven cause. The items below are evidence-based associations or proposed mechanisms that help explain why NXG appears and how it behaves.
Monoclonal paraproteinemia (often IgG-kappa) — the strongest and most frequent association; many patients have it now or develop it later.JAMA NetworkEyeWiki
Plasma-cell dyscrasias (e.g., MGUS, smoldering or overt multiple myeloma) — the blood condition linked to the paraprotein.EyeWiki
Other lymphoproliferative disorders — some patients carry or later develop lymphomas or related disorders.EyeWiki
Immune complex formation — abnormal antibodies likely bind to lipoproteins, drawing in macrophages and fueling granulomas.EyeWiki
Macrophage lipid handling — reduced “reverse cholesterol transport” in some patients may promote cholesterol retention in skin.EyeWiki
Chronic, smoldering inflammation — ongoing low-grade inflammation around necrobiotic collagen keeps lesions active.PubMed
Cholesterol deposition in tissue — seen as cholesterol clefts on biopsy; it is part of the local tissue reaction and scarring.DermNet®
Cryoglobulinemia — reported in a subset and may travel with paraproteinemia.PMC
Older adult age — most patients are diagnosed in the 5th–7th decades; age likely reflects risk of paraproteinemia.EyeWiki
Periocular anatomical factors — thin, mobile eyelid skin may make periorbital sites a “favorite target,” so signs often start there.EyeWiki
Systemic involvement (organ tropism) — NXG sometimes involves airway, liver, spleen, heart, and other sites, showing it is not purely cutaneous.PMC
Leukopenia in some patients — a reported laboratory feature in a fraction of cases alongside the paraprotein.PMC
Hepatic involvement (rare) — reported in case literature; underscores the need for a broad review if symptoms suggest it.Medical Journal of Australia
Pulmonary/bronchial involvement — can occur; may present with cough or imaging findings.PMC
Cardiac involvement (very rare) — granulomatous lesions in heart muscle have been documented in NXG.EyeWiki
Autoimmune-like tendencies — the granulomatous response behaves like an immune reaction to persistent triggers (e.g., paraprotein-lipid complexes).EyeWiki
Normal blood lipids do not rule it out — many patients are not hyperlipidemic; the problem is focal tissue deposition and immune activation.EyeWiki
Possible infection links (rare, case-based) — occasional reports note hepatitis C or other infections in patients with NXG, but a direct causal link is unproven.medcomhk.com
Skin injury as a rare trigger — the “Koebner” effect is well known in other diseases; for NXG it is reported only occasionally and should be considered anecdotal.wcd2019milan-dl.org
Time — the blood disorder and the skin disease can appear in either order; this is why long-term follow-up is essential even if early tests are normal.EyeWiki
Symptoms and signs
Yellow-orange, firm skin plaques or nodules — most often around the eyes but can occur anywhere; the surface can look shiny or waxy.EyeWiki
Red-brown or violaceous color around or on top of the yellow patches, especially when inflamed.EyeWiki
Thickened, bound-down skin (induration) — lesions feel hard and stuck to underlying tissue.JAMA Network
Ulceration — some lesions break down, ooze, or crust; ulcers can be painful and slow to heal.JAAD Case Reports
Atrophic scarring and telangiectasias — over time, lesions can leave thin, scarred skin with small surface blood vessels.EyeWiki
Itching or mild burning — not universal, but some patients report local discomfort.EyeWiki
Lid malposition (ectropion/entropion) — scarring can pull the eyelid out or in, causing irritation.EyeWiki
Eye irritation or dryness — gritty feeling, redness, tearing; sometimes from lid malposition or surface inflammation.EyeWiki
Double vision (diplopia) — if deeper tissues or eye muscles are involved, eye movements can be restricted.JAMA Network
Decreased vision (rare but serious) — severe ocular involvement can threaten sight and needs urgent attention.JAMA Network
Proptosis (bulging eye) — from orbital involvement; measured by an eye doctor.EyeWiki
General fatigue or malaise — nonspecific but common in chronic inflammatory or paraprotein-related disorders.PMC
Easy bruising or infections — if blood counts are low (e.g., leukopenia), people may notice more bruising or infections.PMC
Cough or shortness of breath — if lungs or bronchi are involved (uncommon).PMC
Fullness in the upper abdomen — if liver or spleen are enlarged (rare), patients may feel pressure or fullness.PMC
Diagnostic tests
Doctors do not rely on one test alone. They combine what they see on the skin, what the microscope shows, and what the blood and imaging tests reveal. A widely cited proposal says you need both major criteria (typical skin + typical histology) and at least one minor criterion (paraproteinemia or periorbital distribution) when other causes are excluded.PubMed
A) Physical examination
Full skin exam with mapping of lesions
The clinician looks for yellow-orange, red-brown, or violaceous plaques or nodules, notes whether they ulcerate or scar, and measures their size and distribution. This creates a baseline to track changes over time.EyeWikiTargeted periorbital and eyelid exam
Because eyelids are commonly affected, doctors check for thickening, ectropion/entropion, crusting, ulceration, and surface telangiectasias. They also assess lash position and lid closure to protect the eye.EyeWikiLymph node and organ palpation
The clinician feels for enlarged lymph nodes, liver, or spleen. Although uncommon, NXG can be systemic, so this simple exam helps decide what imaging or labs to add.PMC
B) Manual / bedside tests
Visual acuity (Snellen) testing
Simple letter-chart testing checks if vision has changed. Worsening acuity may signal ocular surface disease, scleritis, or orbital involvement that needs urgent care.JAMA NetworkOcular motility and diplopia assessment
The clinician asks the patient to follow a target in all directions. Pain or double vision suggests muscle or orbital involvement and guides imaging (MRI/CT).JAMA NetworkHertel exophthalmometry
A handheld device measures how far the eye protrudes. Asymmetry or progressive bulging supports orbital involvement and helps monitor response to treatment.EyeWiki
C) Laboratory and pathological tests
Skin biopsy with routine histology (H&E)
This is the cornerstone test. Typical findings include areas of collagen breakdown (necrobiosis), foamy histiocytes, cholesterol clefts, and giant cells (including Touton type). These features strongly support NXG when matched to the clinical picture.PubMedDermNet®Immunostains / special stains to characterize histiocytes and exclude mimics
Pathologists may add stains or panels to support a non-Langerhans histiocytosis pattern and to rule out look-alike conditions. The aim is to fit the whole clinicopathologic picture, not a single marker.EyeWikiSerum protein electrophoresis (SPEP)
Screens for a monoclonal spike that signals a paraprotein. This test is recommended at baseline because paraproteinemia is so common in NXG.JAMA NetworkSerum immunofixation (IFE)
Confirms and types the paraprotein (for example, IgG-kappa). It is more sensitive than SPEP and helps hematology plan follow-up.EyeWikiSerum free light chain assay
Detects excess free kappa or lambda light chains that sometimes do not show up clearly on SPEP/IFE. It helps risk-stratify plasma-cell disorders.ASH PublicationsUrine protein electrophoresis with immunofixation (UPEP/IFE)
Looks for light chains in urine (Bence-Jones protein). Finding them adds evidence for a plasma-cell dyscrasia.ASH PublicationsComplete blood count (CBC) with differential
Checks for anemia or leukopenia, which are occasionally reported with NXG and its hematologic partners.PMCInflammatory markers (ESR/CRP)
These may be elevated and help track overall inflammatory activity, though they are not specific for NXG.PMCCryoglobulin testing
Cryoglobulins can appear alongside paraproteinemia in some patients and may contribute to skin changes; documenting them helps complete the picture.PMC
D) Electrodiagnostic tests
Nerve conduction studies and electromyography (NCS/EMG)
Used if patients report numbness, tingling, or weakness. NXG can rarely associate with peripheral neuropathy; NCS/EMG help confirm and characterize nerve involvement to guide care.PMC12-lead electrocardiogram (ECG)
Reserved for patients with concerning symptoms or known cardiac involvement. Very rare cardiac granulomas have been reported in NXG, so ECG is a low-cost screen when indicated.EyeWiki
E) Imaging tests
Orbital MRI (preferred) or CT
If eyelids are distorted, eye movements are limited, or vision changes occur, imaging shows how deep lesions go and whether the orbit, extraocular muscles, or lacrimal gland are involved.JAMA NetworkWhole-body FDG-PET/CT (or targeted CT/US as guided by symptoms)
Helps look for active disease in organs (e.g., liver, spleen, lungs) and can be useful to monitor response. Choice of scan depends on local availability and the patient’s symptoms.PMCSkeletal survey or low-dose whole-body CT
Used when the hematology team screens for myeloma-related bone disease in patients with a significant paraprotein or suspicious symptoms.ASH Publications
Non-pharmacological treatments
These support healing, comfort, safety, and eye protection. Some procedural items have limited evidence and should be considered by specialists case-by-case.
Education & shared plan – understand the chronic course, warning signs (ulcer, eye exposure), and the need for hematology screening. Purpose: safer self-care; Mechanism: early detection and reduced complications.
Gentle skin care – fragrance-free emollients; avoid picking and friction. Purpose: protect barrier; Mechanism: fewer micro-injuries that fuel inflammation.
Wound-care protocol for ulcers – moist wound dressings, debridement when needed, infection control. Purpose: faster closure; Mechanism: optimizes repair and fights biofilm.
Sun/UV protection on face/eyelids (broad-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses). Purpose: limit surface inflammation and hyperpigmentation; Mechanism: reduces UV-triggered cytokines.
Ocular surface protection – artificial tears/gel (OTC), ointment at night, moisture chambers. Purpose: prevent exposure keratopathy; Mechanism: keeps cornea lubricated.
Warm compresses & lid hygiene (if blepharitis coexists). Purpose: reduce crusting; Mechanism: improves meibomian flow.
Protective padding (silicone shields while sleeping if lids don’t close). Purpose: prevent corneal injury; Mechanism: mechanical barrier.
Infection prevention – clean technique for dressings; quick evaluation if odor, pus, or fever. Purpose: avoid cellulitis/sepsis; Mechanism: reduces bacterial load.
Smoking cessation. Purpose: better wound healing; Mechanism: improved microcirculation.
Physical activity appropriate to fitness. Purpose: systemic anti-inflammatory effects; Mechanism: myokines and metabolic benefits.
Sleep and stress care (sleep schedule, relaxation, CBT if needed). Purpose: better immune balance; Mechanism: lowers stress hormones that worsen inflammation.
Nutrition pattern – Mediterranean-style, protein at each meal for wound repair. Purpose: supports healing; Mechanism: supplies amino acids, micronutrients, omega-3s.
Glycemic control (if diabetic). Purpose: faster healing, fewer infections; Mechanism: less glycation and microvascular damage.
Weight management (if applicable). Purpose: reduce systemic inflammation; Mechanism: adipokine balance.
Avoid trauma at lesion sites and minimize unnecessary procedures there. Purpose: reduce Koebner-like recurrence; Mechanism: fewer triggers for granulomas.
Psychosocial support (counseling, support groups). Purpose: coping with facial changes; Mechanism: reduces distress and improves adherence.
Occupational adjustments if eye exposure risk at work. Purpose: safety; Mechanism: hazard control.
Low-dose radiotherapy (selected cases) – for stubborn localized periocular disease when systemic therapy is not possible. Purpose: reduce mass effect/inflammation; Mechanism: anti-inflammatory radiobiology at low dose. Evidence is limited to case reports/series. JAMA Network
Plasmapheresis (therapeutic plasma exchange) – occasionally used when paraprotein levels are very high or cryoglobulins present. Purpose: rapidly lower pathogenic proteins; Mechanism: physical removal from blood; effect can be temporary. Evidence is limited. BioMed Central
Laser or light-based procedures (selected) – e.g., CO₂/ablative for contouring after disease control; only in expert hands due to recurrence risk. Purpose: shape/comfort; Mechanism: debulking/resurfacing. Evidence: sporadic reports. SAGE Journals
Evidence-based drug treatments
Because NXG is rare, high-quality trials are sparse. The strongest consistent signals across case series and reviews favor IVIG, systemic corticosteroids, and combinations that also treat a plasma-cell clone when present. Doses below are typical regimens from case reports/series and must be individualized by specialists.
Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG)
Class: pooled IgG.
Typical dose: 2 g/kg per cycle split over 2–5 days, often repeated monthly for several months.
Purpose: calm immune over-activity and neutralize harmful antibodies.
Mechanism: Fc-receptor blockade, anti-idiotype effects, cytokine modulation.
Side effects: headache, infusion reactions, thrombosis risk, kidney strain (rare).
Evidence: most effective single modality in a 175-case systematic review. BioMed CentralPMCSystemic corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone)
Class: glucocorticoid.
Typical dose: 0.5–1 mg/kg/day, then taper based on response; sometimes used in pulses or with other agents.
Purpose: rapid anti-inflammatory control.
Mechanism: broad cytokine suppression.
Side effects: weight gain, glucose rise, infection risk, bone loss with long use.
Evidence: common first-line; responses variable, best in combination. PMCRituximab
Class: anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody.
Typical dose: 375 mg/m² IV weekly ×4, with possible maintenance; often combined with steroids.
Purpose: deplete B cells driving paraprotein/antibody production.
Mechanism: antibody-dependent and complement-mediated cytotoxicity.
Side effects: infusion reactions, infections, HBV reactivation (screening needed).
Evidence: used in case series, often when MGUS/B-cell clone suspected. BioMed CentralLenalidomide (± dexamethasone)
Class: IMiD (immunomodulatory).
Typical dose: 10–25 mg orally days 1–21 of a 28-day cycle; dosing adjusted for kidney function and combined with DVT prophylaxis if with steroids.
Purpose: treat an underlying plasma-cell clone and dampen inflammation.
Mechanism: affects cereblon pathway, T-cell and cytokine modulation, anti-angiogenesis.
Side effects: cytopenias, rash, thrombosis (esp. with steroids), fatigue.
Evidence: meaningful responses including complete responses in the review; recent ocular case achieved full resolution after 3 years of therapy. PMCWiley Online LibraryResearchGateThalidomide (± dexamethasone)
Class: IMiD.
Typical dose: 50–200 mg nightly (start low).
Purpose: anti-inflammatory and anti-clonal effects.
Mechanism: TNF-α and cytokine modulation; anti-angiogenesis.
Side effects: peripheral neuropathy, sedation, constipation, teratogenicity.
Evidence: complete responses reported in MGUS-associated NXG. BioMed CentralBortezomib (± dexamethasone, ± cyclophosphamide)
Class: proteasome inhibitor.
Typical dose: 1.3 mg/m² on days 1, 4, 8, 11 every 21 days (varies).
Purpose: target plasma-cell clone; can shrink paraprotein and improve NXG.
Mechanism: proteasome blockade → plasma-cell apoptosis.
Side effects: neuropathy, shingles risk (antiviral prophylaxis), cytopenias.
Evidence: cases report remission of NXG paralleling paraprotein disappearance. PMCEurope PMCCyclophosphamide
Class: alkylating agent.
Typical dose: oral 1–2 mg/kg/day or IV pulses in regimens; usually combined with steroids or rituximab.
Purpose: cytotoxic to B-cells/plasma cells; anti-inflammatory.
Side effects: cytopenias, infections, hemorrhagic cystitis (hydrate), infertility risk.
Evidence: used in combinations across reports. BioMed CentralChlorambucil
Class: alkylating agent.
Typical dose: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg/day (short courses), now less common.
Purpose/Mechanism: older cytotoxic approach for paraprotein-linked dermatoses.
Side effects: cytopenias; secondary malignancy risk with long exposure.
Evidence: historical case experiences. BioMed CentralMelphalan + Prednisone
Class: alkylator + steroid.
Typical dose: regimen varies (e.g., melphalan 0.15 mg/kg/day days 1–7 every 6 weeks) with prednisone.
Purpose: treat plasma-cell clone and calm inflammation.
Side effects: cytopenias, infection risk, steroid effects.
Evidence: successful cases reported. BioMed CentralDaratumumab (often with lenalidomide + dexamethasone in myeloma regimens)
Class: anti-CD38 monoclonal antibody.
Typical dose: 16 mg/kg IV weekly then spaced out (or s.c. fixed dosing per label), as used for myeloma.
Purpose: deplete CD38-positive plasma cells; indirectly improves NXG when driven by a plasma-cell clone.
Side effects: infusion reactions, infections, interference with blood typing.
Evidence: recent case reports show improvement/remission when treating concomitant myeloma. Wiley Online Library+1
Big picture: Across published cases, IVIG and steroids (often with an agent targeting a plasma-cell clone) show the most consistent benefits; lenalidomide and bortezomib-based regimens help when myeloma/MGUS drives the disease. Surgery alone often recurs. BioMed CentralPubMed
Dietary molecular supplements
There are no supplements proven to cure NXG. These options are general anti-inflammatory/wound-healing supports. Always review with your clinicians to avoid interactions (e.g., with blood thinners or myeloma drugs).
Omega-3 (EPA+DHA): 1–2 g/day. Function: anti-inflammatory lipid mediators; Mechanism: resolvins/protectins.
Vitamin D3: 1000–2000 IU/day (or to correct deficiency). Function: immune modulation; Mechanism: VDR-mediated cytokine balance.
Vitamin C: 500–1000 mg/day. Function: collagen cross-linking; Mechanism: cofactor for prolyl/lysyl hydroxylases.
Zinc: 15–30 mg/day (short term). Function: epithelial repair; Mechanism: DNA/RNA polymerase cofactor.
Curcumin: 500–1000 mg/day with piperine. Function: NF-κB down-modulation; Mechanism: cytokine inhibition.
Quercetin: 500 mg/day. Function: mast-cell stabilizer/antioxidant; Mechanism: reduces histamine/cytokines.
Resveratrol: 100–250 mg/day. Function: antioxidant; Mechanism: SIRT1/AMPK signaling.
Green tea extract (EGCG): 200–400 mg/day. Function: anti-oxidative, anti-angiogenic.
N-acetylcysteine (NAC): 600–1200 mg/day. Function: glutathione support; Mechanism: redox balance.
Probiotics: 1–10 billion CFU/day multi-strain. Function: gut-immune crosstalk; Mechanism: SCFA and mucosal immune effects.
Advanced immune/regenerative” options
There are no approved “stem-cell drugs” for NXG itself. The one true regenerative option appears only when there is established multiple myeloma: an autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplant (ASCT) as part of the standard myeloma pathway. The others below are powerful immune-targeting treatments that “boost or reset” immunity indirectly by removing the abnormal plasma-cell clone or by replacing harmful antibodies.
Autologous hematopoietic stem-cell transplantation (ASCT)
What it is: collection of your own stem cells, high-dose chemotherapy to wipe out the myeloma clone, then stem-cell rescue.
Where it helps: for eligible myeloma; NXG may improve when the plasma-cell driver is controlled. Dose: procedural; chemotherapy regimens vary. Risks: neutropenia, infection, organ stress.Daratumumab-based therapy (anti-CD38)
Function: deep plasma-cell depletion; indirectly helps NXG in some cases. Dose: per myeloma protocols. Risks: infusion reactions, infections. Wiley Online LibraryBortezomib-based therapy (± dexamethasone/± cyclophosphamide)
Function: kills plasma cells; NXG remission has paralleled paraprotein clearance. Risks: neuropathy, shingles (needs antiviral prophylaxis). PMCLenalidomide (± dexamethasone)
Function: strong immunomodulation + anti-plasma-cell effects; complete ocular NXG resolution reported with long-term therapy. Risks: cytopenias, thrombosis. ResearchGateRituximab (B-cell depletion)
Function: knocks down upstream B-cells that feed plasma-cell responses; used when a B-cell process is suspected. Risks: HBV reactivation; pre-screen needed. BioMed CentralIVIG (immune re-balancing)
Function: provides healthy pooled antibodies that neutralize or dilute harmful antibody effects. Risks: headache, thrombosis risk, renal strain. Most consistent single-agent efficacy across cases. BioMed Central
These are specialist therapies used after careful discussion of risks/benefits and almost always with hematology/oncology input if a paraprotein is present.
Surgeries
Surgery is not first-line because recurrence rates can be high (≈40% in one series), especially if the underlying paraprotein-driven process continues. Surgery is reserved for very specific problems (for example, when eyelids cannot close or vision is threatened). PubMedEyeWiki
Targeted lesion excision/debulking – remove a bulky plaque compressing structures. Why: relieve mass effect or pain; improve function or hygiene. Note: recurrence possible. PubMed
Eyelid reconstruction (e.g., ectropion repair, canthoplasty, skin graft/flap) – Why: restore lid position to protect the cornea and allow complete blinking. EyeWiki
Ulcer debridement with coverage (graft/flap if needed) – Why: convert chronic nonhealing ulcers into clean, closing wounds.
Orbital decompression or debulking (select cases) – Why: relieve proptosis or restricted eye movements when deep tissues are involved (rare and individualized).
Scar revision/contouring after disease stabilization – Why: improve comfort and appearance once inflammation is quiet.
Prevention & risk-reduction habits
Keep regular follow-ups with dermatology; add hematology if a paraprotein is found. Purpose: early detection of clonal changes. PubMed
Protect the ocular surface (lubricants, night ointment) if lids don’t close well.
Treat new ulcers early to avoid infection and scarring.
Avoid trauma (friction, unnecessary procedures) on involved skin.
Stop smoking; support microcirculation and healing.
Keep blood sugar in range if you have diabetes.
Balanced, anti-inflammatory diet and adequate protein for skin repair.
Vaccinations (per doctor advice) before major immunosuppression (e.g., zoster before bortezomib; flu/pneumococcal).
Sun protection for face/eyelids.
Medication review before adding supplements or NSAIDs while on immunomodulators/anticoagulation.
When to see a doctor
New or changing facial/eyelid plaques, ulcers, or lumps.
Eyelids pulling out (ectropion), eyes not closing, red/painful eyes, blurred vision, or light sensitivity.
Rapid swelling, fever, pus, or foul-smelling drainage from a lesion.
Numbness/tingling, bone pain, unexplained weight loss, night sweats, or unusual fatigue (possible clues to a blood disorder).
Before pregnancy or major surgery if you are receiving immunomodulatory drugs (lenalidomide/thalidomide are unsafe in pregnancy).
Any time your care plan changes or you plan to start supplements—to check for interactions.
What to eat and what to avoid
Prioritize protein at each meal (eggs, fish, legumes, lean meats) to support skin repair.
Plenty of colorful plants (leafy greens, berries, tomatoes) for antioxidants.
Omega-3-rich foods (fatty fish, flax, walnuts) to nudge inflammation down.
Whole grains and fiber (oats, barley, beans) for metabolic and gut benefits.
Hydration (water first) to keep skin and eyes comfortable.
Limit added sugars (sodas, sweets) which worsen systemic inflammation.
Avoid ultra-processed foods high in refined carbs, emulsifiers, and trans fats.
Moderate alcohol, or avoid if you have ulcers/infections or are on interacting meds.
Watch salt if steroids are used (can worsen blood pressure/fluid retention).
Discuss supplements with your clinicians, especially if you’re on lenalidomide, thalidomide, bortezomib, steroids, or anticoagulants.
Frequently asked questions
1) Is NXG cancer?
No. NXG is an inflammatory/granulomatous disease. However, many people with NXG have a monoclonal protein in the blood, and a small minority later develop multiple myeloma or another blood cancer. That’s why hematology follow-up is recommended. PubMed
2) Is it contagious?
No—NXG is not an infection and does not spread from person to person.
3) Why are my eyelids involved?
NXG has a strong preference for periocular skin. The tissue is thin and mobile, and inflammation there can pull lids out of position. EyeWiki
4) How is NXG diagnosed?
By skin biopsy (shows necrobiotic granulomas with cholesterol clefts and giant cells) plus blood tests to look for a paraprotein (SPEP/IFE/free light chains). Imaging or bone-marrow biopsy is used selectively. PubMedNature
5) Will it go away on its own?
Some lesions stabilize; many persist for years and can ulcerate or recur. Early, tailored treatment helps reduce damage. PubMed
6) What treatments work best overall?
Across published cases, IVIG and systemic corticosteroids—often alongside therapy that treats a plasma-cell clone (e.g., lenalidomide, bortezomib)—are most consistently effective. BioMed Central
7) Does surgery fix it?
Surgery can help specific problems (e.g., eyelid malposition), but lesions often recur if the underlying process is untreated. PubMed
8) Will diet cure NXG?
No. Diet can support healing and help control inflammation, but it doesn’t replace medical therapy.
9) Are there eye risks?
Yes. Exposure keratopathy, infection, and rare corneal perforation can occur if lids don’t close well. Early ophthalmology care is protective. JAMA Network
10) What specialists do I need?
Usually dermatology (lead), hematology/oncology (if paraprotein), and ophthalmology (if periocular disease).
11) Are there new treatments?
Newer myeloma-directed agents (e.g., daratumumab) have helped some NXG patients who also have a plasma-cell disorder. Evidence is from case reports, so care is individualized. Wiley Online Library
12) How often should I be checked for a paraprotein?
Your team will set a schedule (often every 6–12 months or sooner if symptoms change). This is because NXG is commonly paraprotein-associated. Nature
13) Can NXG occur without any monoclonal protein?
Yes—some patients have no detectable paraprotein. The skin disease is still managed similarly, with close follow-up. Nature
14) Is radiation therapy ever used?
Occasionally, low-dose radiotherapy can be used for localized, stubborn periocular disease when other options are unsuitable. Decisions are highly individualized. JAMA Network
15) What’s the long-term outlook?
Most people live with chronic, manageable disease. The key is protecting the eyes, preventing ulcers, and monitoring/treating any plasma-cell disorder early. Many patients improve with the combinations listed above. BioMed Central
Disclaimer: Each person’s journey is unique, treatment plan, life style, food habit, hormonal condition, immune system, chronic disease condition, geological location, weather and previous medical history is also unique. So always seek the best advice from a qualified medical professional or health care provider before trying any treatments to ensure to find out the best plan for you. This guide is for general information and educational purposes only. Regular check-ups and awareness can help to manage and prevent complications associated with these diseases conditions. If you or someone are suffering from this disease condition bookmark this website or share with someone who might find it useful! Boost your knowledge and stay ahead in your health journey. We always try to ensure that the content is regularly updated to reflect the latest medical research and treatment options. Thank you for giving your valuable time to read the article.
The article is written by Team RxHarun and reviewed by the Rx Editorial Board Members
Last Updated: August 14, 2025.
