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

• Sebaceous Glands Hyperplasia

What is Sebaceous Hyperplasia? (Definition/Background Information)

• Sebaceous Hyperplasia is a common, benign overgrowth of the sebaceous gland on skin, which appears as a yellowish tan papule
• A papule is an area of abnormal skin tissue that is less than 1 cm around. Usually a papule has distinct borders, and it can appear in a variety of shapes
• Sebaceous Hyperplasia is commonly observed in middle-aged and older adults on the head and neck region, particularly the face
• These papules are generally asymptomatic. But, since they are frequently confused with basal cell carcinoma (a malignant skin tumor), Sebaceous Hyperplasia may be biopsied to ensure a definitive diagnosis
• The cause of development of the condition is unknown, though the risk factors for Sebaceous Hyperplasia include Muir-Torre syndrome and renal transplantation
• A treatment of Sebaceous Hyperplasia may be undertaken, if they present cosmetic concerns to the individual. In such cases, a simple surgical excision or ablation is sufficient treatment. The prognosis is excellent on removal of the papule

There are rare variants of Sebaceous Hyperplasia, which include:

• Giant form of Sebaceous Hyperplasia
• Linear form of Sebaceous Hyperplasia
• Diffuse form of Sebaceous Hyperplasia
• Familial form of Sebaceous Hyperplasia

Who gets Sebaceous Hyperplasia? (Age and Sex Distribution)

• Sebaceous Hyperplasia is commonly seen in middle-aged and elderly adults. It can occur in newborn babies too
• It is observed in both men and women
• This condition is observed worldwide; there is no racial or ethnic predisposition

What are the Risk Factors for Sebaceous Hyperplasia? (Predisposing Factors)

The risk factors for Sebaceous Hyperplasia include:

• Muir-Torre syndrome
• Kidney transplantation

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 Sebaceous Hyperplasia? (Etiology)

• The exact cause and development of Sebaceous Hyperplasia is unknown
• Research is being performed to identify the relevant causative factors

What are the Signs and Symptoms of Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

In most cases, Sebaceous Hyperplasia does not present any signs and symptoms. However, the following may be noted:

• They occur as tiny skin overgrowths
• The papules are yellowish tan in color and are benign; no malignancy occurs in them 
• They may range in size from 1 to 3 mm and can be single or many in number (at various body sites)
• The most common locations are the head and neck region, especially the face
• Sebaceous Hyperplasia can be painful, if they undergo a trauma. This can result in inflammation and bleeding

How is Sebaceous Hyperplasia Diagnosed?

A diagnosis of Sebaceous Hyperplasia may involve the following procedures and tests:

• Complete physical examination with evaluation of medical history
• Dermoscopy: It is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin using a special magnified lens
• Wood’s lamp examination: In this procedure, the healthcare provider examines the skin using ultraviolet light. It is performed to examine the change in skin pigmentation
• Skin biopsy: A skin biopsy is performed and sent to a laboratory for a pathological examination. The pathologist examines the biopsy under a microscope. After putting together clinical findings, special studies on tissues (if needed) and with microscope findings, the pathologist arrives at a definitive diagnosis

Note: In majority of the cases, the diagnosis of Sebaceous Hyperplasia may not necessarily involve a biopsy. However, if there is a suspicion of basal cell carcinoma (a malignant skin tumor), then the healthcare provider may recommend a biopsy.

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 Sebaceous Hyperplasia?

No significant complications generally arise from Sebaceous Hyperplasia; however:

• These papules may present cosmetic concerns, in which case a surgery may be proposed
• Also, if they are traumatized, severe pain and bleeding with ulceration may occur
• Bleeding and ulceration can cause infection due to bacteria or fungi

How is Sebaceous Hyperplasia Treated?

Sebaceous Hyperplasia requires no treatment in a majority of cases, since they are generally asymptomatic. However, in case they present cosmetic issues in the individual, they may be removed.

The treatment measure adopted for Sebaceous Hyperplasia include:

• The healthcare provider may chose to regularly monitor the papule if they are asymptomatic
• Topical retinoids can minimize or clear Sebaceous Hyperplasia
• Repeated cryosurgery can clear Sebaceous Hyperplasia
• A complete surgical excision can result in a cure
• Ablation with electrocautery or a laser can be a successful treatment method too
• Post-operative care is important, until the surgical wound heals
• Follow-up care with regular screening and check-ups are important

How can Sebaceous Hyperplasia be Prevented?

Current medical research has not established a definitive method of preventing the formation of Sebaceous Hyperplasia.

What is the Prognosis of Sebaceous Hyperplasia? (Outcomes/Resolutions)

• The prognosis of Sebaceous Hyperplasia is excellent on its complete excision and removal, yet new lesions can occur
• Since, these are benign papules, the prognosis is excellent even if no treatment is provided and only periodic observation is maintained

Additional and Relevant Useful Information for Sebaceous Hyperplasia:

• Sebaceous Hyperplasia is not an infectious condition; they do not spread from one individual to another
• There is no definitive proof that certain types of diet may influence its development