Fordyce Spots

Key Points
Common skin condition which affects the genital area, lips and mouth
Caused when sebaceous glands form without an associated hair follicle
Consists of small elevated papules or flat spots which are yellow-white in color

Fordyce spots are a common skin condition which typically affects the genital area (glans and shaft of the penis for men, labia for women), mouth, and lips. The condition consists of small elevated papules or flat spots which are yellow or white in color. Lesions are sometimes present at birth and grow larger as the affected person ages, especially during puberty. Lesions may be solitary, but they most often appear in groups and are asymptomatic.

Fordyce spots occur when sebaceous glands in the affected area form without an associated hair follicle. The exact reason for this is unknown, but the condition cannot be transmitted sexually.

Differential Diagnosis (Other conditions with similar appearance)

Acrochordon
Milia
Basal cell carcinoma
Molluscum contagiosum
Calcinosis cutis
Muir-Torre syndrome
Multiple Endocrine Neoplasia Type 1
Cowden Disease (Multiple hamartoma syndrome)
Sarcoidosis
Fibrous papule of the Face
Sebaceous Adenoma
Follicular Infundibulum Tumor
Sebaceous Carcinoma
Folliculoma
Syringoma

Diagnosis
Key Points
Initial diagnosis based on the characteristic appearance of the affected area
Biopsy may be required to rule out similar appearing conditions

Fordyce spots are initially diagnosed based on the characteristic appearance of the affected area. As the condition can resemble other disorders, especially certain sexually transmitted diseases, other tests may be required to rule these disorders out.

Treatment
Condition is benign and does not require treatment
Attempt to avoid scratching or putting pressure on lesions
If requested for cosmetic reasons, lesions may be removed

The presence of Fordyce spots is a benign condition and therefore does not typically require treatment, though health care professionals may recommend affected persons avoid injuring lesions through scratching or pressure to avoid damage. If requested for cosmetic reasons, lesions may be removed via electrodessication or laser therapy.