What causes Fordyce spots inside cheeks?
These are known as ectopic sebaceous glands. It is not known what causes Fordyce spots, but some studies have linked their development to hormonal changes, and others suggest that they start to form while an embryo is growing in the womb.
Can you get Fordyce spots in your mouth?
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.
Where are Fordyce granules located?
Fordyce spots are whitish-yellow bumps that can occur on the edge of your lips or inside your cheeks. Less often, they can appear on your penis or scrotum if you’re male or your labia if you’re female. The spots, also called Fordyce granules or Fordyce glands, are enlarged oil glands.
How do I get rid of Fordyce granules?
Fordyce Spots Treatment
- Carbon dioxide laser. Your doctor might suggest removing the spots with a carbon dioxide laser.
- Retinoid medication. Isotretinoin pills are sometimes helpful, especially when combined with laser treatment.
- Topical creams.
- Photodynamic therapy.
- Micro-punch technique.
What are Fordyce granules?
Fordyce spots, also called Fordyce granules, are small pimple-like structures that commonly form on the body. They’re seen most often on male genitalia, especially around the shaft and testicles, but can be found on the lips and inner mouth. They’re also present in female genitalia, especially around the labia.
Why do I suddenly have Fordyce spots?
The symptoms of Fox-Fordyce disease may appear suddenly usually following conditions of heat, humidity or friction. The disease is characterized by an eruption of multiple, small, raised bumps on the skin near the apocrine glands.
