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

• Ectopic Sebaceous Glands of Vulva
• Fordyce Spots of Vulva
• Sebaceous Hyperplasia of Vulva

What is Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva? (Definition/Background Information)

• Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva are small, raised papules, multiple in number that occurs on the vulva (external vaginal opening). 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 Vulva 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 Vulva is commonly observed in middle-aged women
• 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 Vulva is excellent, whether treatment is provided or not

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

• Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva is a common condition in girls and women; it is more noticeable during middle-age
• Generally, 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 Vulva? (Predisposing Factors)

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

• The exact cause of development of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva is not well understood
• 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 Vulva?

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

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

How is Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva Diagnosed?

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

• A thorough physical examination and a complete medical history are very crucial. A dermatologist may visually examine the papules to help establish a diagnosis
• 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 Vulva?

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

• 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 minor surgical treatment may be proposed

How is Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva Treated?

There is no treatment required for Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva, since it is a benign condition.

• Providing reassurance and helping with anxiety feelings, since the condition 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 electrodessication destruction or laser therapy to have them removed

How can Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva be Prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines available to prevent the occurrence of Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva.

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

• Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva is a common, benign (non-cancerous) condition that has an excellent prognosis
• It has no clinical significance, but may cause anxiety in some girls and women

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva:

• There is no evidence to prove that oily foods and chocolate-based products have an influence on Prominent Sebaceous Glands of Vulva
• 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