Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis

Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis

Article
Men's Health
Sexual Health
+2
Contributed byMaulik P. Purohit MD MPHMay 03, 2018

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

  • Fordyce Granules of Penis
  • Sebaceous Hyperplasia of Penis
  • Tyson Glands of Penis

What are Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis? (Definition/Background Information)

  • Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis are small, raised papules, multiple in number that occurs on the shaft of the penis. 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. Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis are non-infectious and are not sexually transmitted
  • There are no clear risk factors identified for the condition and the cause remains unknown. Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis is commonly observed in middle-aged men
  • Generally no treatment is required for the condition; however, if they pose cosmetic concerns, then a surgery or laser excision may be performed
  • The prognosis of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis is excellent, whether treatment is provided or not

Who gets Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis? (Age and Sex Distribution)

  • Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis is a common condition in boys and men; it is more noticeable during middle-age
  • Prominent Sebaceous Glands of the genitals are more common in males than females
  • 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 Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis? (Predisposing Factors)

  • The risk factors for Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis 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 Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis? (Etiology)

  • The exact cause of development of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis 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 Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis?

There are no significant signs and symptoms of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis. The appearance of the papules may be described as:

  • Presence of small, multiple papules that vary in color from white to red on the penile shaft
  • These papules are prominent sweat glands (sebaceous glands) and are normal structures of the body
  • The papules are more visible when the skin of the penis is stretched (like during an erection)
  • White chalky discharge may appear if these prominent lesions are squeezed

How are Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis Diagnosed?

The following are the diagnostic methods to help identify Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis:

  • A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial. A diagnosis of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis 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 of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis?

No significant complications have been reported due to Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis.

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

How are Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis Treated?

There is no treatment required for Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis, 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 sexually-transmitted infections (if any)
  • Individuals, in whom it causes cosmetic issues, may undergo a surgical excision or laser therapy to have them removed

How can Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis.

What is the Prognosis of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

  • Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis 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 Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Penis:

  • 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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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH picture
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Maulik P. Purohit MD MPH

Assistant Medical Director, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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