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

• Ectopic Sebaceous Glands of Skin
• Fordyce Disease of Skin
• Sebaceous Hyperplasia of Skin

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

• Fordyce Spots of Skin are small, raised papules, multiple in numbers that occur on the lips of the mouth as well as on the scrotum, penile shaft, and the vulva. They can vary in color from whitish to yellow and are usually 2-3 mm (each) in size
• The papules are actually sebaceous glands that have increased in size. Fordyce Spots of Skin 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 Skin is commonly observed in middle-aged men and women
• Generally, no treatment is required for the condition; however, if they pose cosmetic concerns, then a surgery or laser ablation may be performed
• The prognosis of Fordyce Spots of Skin is generally excellent, whether treatment is provided or not

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

• Fordyce Spots of Skin is a common skin 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 Skin? (Predisposing Factors)

• The risk factors for Fordyce Spots of Skin are presently 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 Skin? (Etiology)

• The exact cause of development of Fordyce Spots of Skin is presently 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 Skin?

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

• Presence of small, multiple papules that vary in color from white to red on the lips of the mouth and on the scrotum
• These papules are prominent 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 Skin Diagnosed?

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

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial. A diagnosis of Fordyce Spots of Skin may be arrived at by visually examining the papules
• Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• 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 for Fordyce Spots of Skin?

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

• However, some individuals may have stress and anxiety issues fearing that the condition is an infection
• Some individuals face cosmetic issues due to the appearance of the papules, in which case a surgery may be proposed

How is Fordyce Spots of Skin Treated?

There is no treatment required for Fordyce Spots of Skin, 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
• Individuals, in whom it causes cosmetic issues, may undergo electrodessication or laser vaporization to have them removed

How can Fordyce Spots of Skin be Prevented?

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

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

• Fordyce Spots of Skin 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 Skin:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Fordyce Spots of Skin
• Cleaning the skin too hard with strong chemicals or soaps may aggravate the skin condition. Care must be taken avoid strong soaps and chemicals that could potentially worsen the condition
• 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