Fordyce Spots

Fordyce Spots

Question. Write short note on Fordyce’s granules.

Answer. It is a developmental anomaly characterized by heterotrophic collection of sebaceous glands at various sites in oral cavity.

Pathogenesis

It is suggested that occurrence of sebaceous gland in the mouth may result from inclusion in the oral cavity of ectoderm having some of the potentialities of skin in the course of development of the maxillary and mandibular process during embryonic life.

“Understanding the role of Fordyce spots in oral and skin health: Q&A explained”

Clinical Features

• They appear as yellow spots either separated from each other and remain in groups.
• They are seen bilaterally on the mucosa of cheeks opposite to molar tooth, on the inner surfaces of lips, retromolar area.
• They are also seen in the esophagus, female genitalia,male genitalia, nipples, palm and soles, parotid gland,larynx and orbit.

“Importance of studying Fordyce spots for better diagnostic outcomes: Questions explained”

Histological Features

• They are unassociated with the hair follicles.
• Glands are superfiial and may consist of only few or more tubules, all grouped around one or more ducts which open in the mucosa.
• Ducts may show keratin plugging.

Treatment
No treatment is required.