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Fordyce Spots of Mouth

Article
Dental Health
Diseases & Conditions
+1
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBASep 14, 2018

What are the other Names for this Condition? (Also known as/Synonyms)

  • Fordyce Condition of Mouth
  • Fordyce Granules of Mouth
  • Sebaceous Hyperplasia of Mouth

What is Fordyce Spots of Mouth? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Fordyce Spots of Mouth are small, raised papules, multiple in number that occurs anywhere in the mouth. They can vary in color from white to red and are usually 2-3 mm (each) in size
  • These papules are actually sebaceous glands that have increased in size. Fordyce Spots of Mouth are non-infectious and are not sexually transmitted
  • There are no clear risk factors identified for the condition and the cause remains unknown. Fordyce Spots of Mouth is commonly observed in middle-aged men and women
  • Generally no treatment is required for the condition. The prognosis of Fordyce Spots of Mouth is excellent, whether treatment is provided or not

Who gets Fordyce Spots of Mouth? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Fordyce Spots of Mouth is a common condition affecting both males and females of all age group; it is more noticeable during middle-age
  • The condition can occur worldwide and no geographical preference is seen. Individuals of all racial and ethnic background may be affected

What are the Risk Factors for Fordyce Spots of Mouth? (Predisposing Factors)

  • The risk factors for Fordyce Spots of Mouth are unknown

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases ones chances of getting a condition compared to an individual without the risk factors. Some risk factors are more important than others.

Also, not having a risk factor does not mean that an individual will not get the condition. It is always important to discuss the effect of risk factors with your healthcare provider.

What are the Causes of Fordyce Spots of Mouth? (Etiology)

  • The exact cause of development of Fordyce Spots of Mouth is unknown
  • The condition is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another
  • There is no definitive proof that certain types of diet may influence its development

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Fordyce Spots of Mouth?

There are no significant signs and symptoms of Fordyce Spots of Mouth. The appearance of the papules may be described as:

  • Presence of small, multiple papules that vary in color from white to red in the mouth
  • These papules are prominent sweat glands (sebaceous glands) and are normal structures of the body
  • White chalky discharge may appear if these prominent lesions are squeezed

How is Fordyce Spots of Mouth Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods to help identify Fordyce Spots of Mouth:

  • A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial. A diagnosis of Fordyce Spots of Mouth may be arrived at by visually examining the papules
  • A biopsy of the papule is usually not necessary

Many clinical conditions may have similar signs and symptoms. Your healthcare provider may perform additional tests to rule out other clinical conditions to arrive at a definitive diagnosis.

What are the possible Complications of Fordyce Spots of Mouth?

No significant complications have been reported due to Fordyce Spots of Mouth.

  • However, some individuals may have stress and anxiety issues fearing that the condition is an infection
  • Cosmetic (appearance) issues

How is Fordyce Spots of Mouth Treated?

There is no treatment required for Fordyce Spots of Mouth, since it is a benign condition.

  • Providing reassurance and support that the condition is harmless and has an excellent outcome
  • Some individuals may consult healthcare professionals to rule out an infection
  • Surgical excision in case of visual appearance concerns, or if the papules are annoying and worrisome

How can Fordyce Spots of Mouth be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Fordyce Spots of Mouth.

What is the Prognosis of Fordyce Spots of Mouth? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

  • Fordyce Spots of Mouth is a common, benign (non-cancerous) condition that has an excellent prognosis
  • It has no clinical significance, but may cause anxiety in some individuals

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Fordyce Spots of Mouth:

  • There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis
  • The presence of dirt on the body is not a causative factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which may help the condition from getting worse
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA picture
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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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