Fordyce spots are normal, superficial, ectopic sebaceous glands seen on mucosal surfaces that are not associated with hair follicles. They may affect as much as 80% of the population. Fordyce spots are often found on the oral mucosa, the vermilion of the lips, the inferior eyelids, and the genitals. 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.
Fordyce spots - Oral Mucosal Lesion
See also in: Overview,AnogenitalAlerts and Notices
Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
L73.9 – Follicular disorder, unspecified
Q38.6 – Other congenital malformations of mouth
SNOMEDCT:
50584008 – Fordyce's disease
L73.9 – Follicular disorder, unspecified
Q38.6 – Other congenital malformations of mouth
SNOMEDCT:
50584008 – Fordyce's disease
Look For
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Diagnostic Pearls
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Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
- Sebaceous hyperplasia is another condition due to a proliferation of sebaceous glands and appears as a larger papule or plaque.
- Lipomas are generally larger, exophytic, unilateral, and soft in texture.
- Oral lymphoepithelial cysts are usually solitary, exophytic, unilateral, and larger. They occur in the floor of the mouth and posterior lateral tongue, not the usual sites for Fordyce spots.
- Granular cell tumors are solitary, larger, firm in consistency, and are usually within the substance of the tongue.
- Candidal plaques have an acute onset, a "stuck-on" appearance, and are not found within the mucosa.
- Small fibromas and areas of scarring have an indurated texture.
- Lichen planus of the oral mucosa can present with lacy white reticulated plaques.
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Management Pearls
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Therapy
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References
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Last Reviewed:03/29/2021
Last Updated:04/11/2021
Last Updated:04/11/2021
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Fordyce spots - Oral Mucosal Lesion
See also in: Overview,Anogenital