Eruptive xanthomas are sudden-onset, small, yellowish papules with an erythematous halo, caused by the deposition of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins in the skin. They are clinically important as markers of severe hypertriglyceridaemia, which can indicate underlying metabolic disturbances requiring urgent management. A key association is uncontrolled diabetes mellitus, which can precipitate these lesions and increase the risk of pancreatitis.