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Fordyce spots in Adult
See also in: Anogenital,Oral Mucosal Lesion
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Fordyce spots in Adult

See also in: Anogenital,Oral Mucosal Lesion
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Contributors: Anand S. Desai MD, Vivian Wong MD, PhD, Susan Burgin MD
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Synopsis

Fordyce spots (Oral and Eye Presentation) : Buccal mucosa, Yellow color, Upper lip
Oral and Eye Presentation
Fordyce spots are normal, ectopic, large, superficial sebaceous glands not associated with hair follicles. The "spots" are asymptomatic and are found most commonly on the vermillion of the lips and on the inferior eyelids. They can also be found on the genitals, including the labia majora and minora in females and the glans penis, penile shaft, and the mucosal aspect of the foreskin in males. The spots are usually clustered and asymptomatic.

The likelihood of developing Fordyce spots increases with age; however, these small papules can be seen in patients of any age. Their development can be associated with hormonal changes, and puberty can bring about their onset. 

Patients may experience itching or irritation if they have been treating the papules inappropriately.

Codes

ICD10CM:
L73.9 – Follicular disorder, unspecified
Q38.6 – Other congenital malformations of mouth

SNOMEDCT:
50584008 – Fordyce's disease

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Diagnostic Pearls

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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls

Anogenital lesions:
Oral lesions:

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References

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Last Reviewed:06/08/2021
Last Updated:06/08/2021
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Patient Information for Fordyce spots in Adult
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Fordyce spots (Oral and Eye Presentation) : Buccal mucosa, Yellow color, Upper lip
Oral and Eye Presentation

Overview

Fordyce spots are normal large, superficial sebaceous (oil-producing) glands seen on the moist tissue that lines some organs and body cavities (mucosal surfaces). The "spots" are asymptomatic and can be found on the head of the penis, the inner foreskin, and, most commonly, at the border of the lips. These sebaceous glands are not associated with hair follicles. These lesions are asymptomatic, but itching or irritation may occur if people treat the bumps inappropriately.

Who’s At Risk

Fordyce spots can appear at any point in life, but the incidence of appearance increases with age, with the largest prevalence in elderly patients.

Signs & Symptoms

  • The most common location for Fordyce spots is at the border of the lips, especially near the corners of the mouth. Other locations include the back portions of the inner cheeks and inside the mouth, including the tonsils. The head of the penis and inner portion of the foreskin may be affected as well.
  • Multiple (usually less than 10) 1-2 mm, painless, yellowish papules are seen.

Self-Care Guidelines

None necessary.

When to Seek Medical Care

Fordyce spots are normal and non-cancerous (benign), but seek medical evaluation if Fordyce spots become itchy or irritated.

Treatments

  • No treatment is needed.
  • If irritation is noted, mild topical steroids may provide relief but should be used with caution.

References


Bolognia, Jean L., ed. Dermatology, pp.1656. New York: Mosby, 2003.

Freedberg, Irwin M., ed. Fitzpatrick's Dermatology in General Medicine. 6th ed, pp.672, 786, 805. New York: McGraw-Hill, 2003.
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Fordyce spots in Adult
See also in: Anogenital,Oral Mucosal Lesion
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A medical illustration showing key findings of Fordyce spots (Oral and Eye Presentation) : Buccal mucosa, Yellow color, Upper lip
Clinical image of Fordyce spots - imageId=190784. Click to open in gallery. caption: 'Pinpoint, discrete and confluent, yellow papules on the lower lip and at the oral commissure.'
Pinpoint, discrete and confluent, yellow papules on the lower lip and at the oral commissure.

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