What are Fordyce spots? Fordyce spots in men are small raised bumps that appear on the body of the penis, scrotum or near the lips and eyes. They do not pose a health risk. Fordyce’s spots are fatty growths that appear as small white dots on the skin. They are more common in men, but are also seen in women (on the labia). These harmless spots may cause concern due to their appearance, but they are only a cosmetic problem. What are the causes of Fordyce spots? Fordyce spots are a type of sebaceous glands that appear in an unusual place on the body. These are known as ectopic sebaceous glands and usually become more visible when there is increased production of a specific oily secretion (sebum) in the skin, such as during puberty. It is not known what causes Fordyce’s spots to appear, but some studies link their development to hormonal changes, while others suggest that the spots begin to form as the embryo grows in the womb. Although these glands are technically out of place, they are not associated with disease. Dermatologists consider Fordyce spots only a cosmetic problem. According to specialists, these formations are natural and occur to some extent in most people. What are the symptoms of Fordyce spots? Fordyce spots are small, pale bumps or spots between 1 and 3 millimeters (mm) in diameter. They are usually surrounded by yellow, white, pale red (or skin-colored) coloring and are seen in the following areas of the body: Body of the penis; The scrotum; Around the eyes The border between the lips and the skin, known as the red line. On the shaft of the penis and scrotum, Fordyce spots may appear as bright red or purple papules or may be pale in color. They can appear alone or in groups of 50 to 100 spots. Fordyce’s spots become more pronounced when the skin is stretched. Fordyce spots do not cause pain or itching. In some cases, they may bleed during or after intercourse. They are not contagious and cannot be passed from one person to another. Some men with Fordyce spots may wonder if they have contracted a sexually transmitted infection (STI) or have developed a type of cancer. What are the complications of Fordyce spots? In cases of severe presentation of these formations on the border between the lips and the skin and around the eyes, there is a risk of anxiety and depression due to the sometimes ugly appearance of the spots. Individuals with multiple genital Fordyce spots may experience embarrassment from their sexual partners. In some cases, the spots may bleed when injured or during intercourse. However, there are no known physical complications from Fordyce spots. What are the risk factors for Fordyce spots? While the causes of Fordyce spots are largely unknown,these growths can be associated with different skin types and other conditions. Fordyce spots are twice as common in men than women and are more likely to appear on oily skin. Fordyce spots around the mouth and eyes are also associated with hyperlipidemia, and research has shown links between Fordyce spots and other risk factors for heart and artery disease. What is the treatment for Fordyce spots? Most specialists do not recommend treatment for Fordyce’s spots. Dermatologists and other doctors emphasize that it is normal for Fordyce spots to appear on the body and they are not dangerous to health. However, there are a number of cosmetic procedures that can be used to remove Fordyce spots. Electrodissection Electrodissection or carbon dioxide (CO2) laser treatment has been used with some success for less visible Fordyce spots. This treatment targets the purely cosmetic skin problems caused by this condition. Pulsed dye lasers Pulsed dye lasers are also effective in some cases. They are used commonly for laser treatment of a disorder known as sebaceous hyperplasia, in which the glands that cause Fordyce’s spots become enlarged. Pulsed dye lasers often leave less scarring than other treatment methods. If any changes are noticed on the genitals or face, they should be examined by a doctor. However, Fordyce spots are not a pressing health concern. References: 1. SingleCare. Glitazones 2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Glitazones: clinical effects and molecular mechanisms 3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Thiazolidinediones: the Forgotten Diabetes Medications 4. Medical News Today. Should I be worried about Fordyce spots?They are used commonly for laser treatment of a disorder known as sebaceous hyperplasia, in which the glands that cause Fordyce’s spots become enlarged. Pulsed dye lasers often leave less scarring than other treatment methods. If any changes are noticed on the genitals or face, they should be examined by a doctor. However, Fordyce spots are not a pressing health concern. References: 1. SingleCare. Glitazones 2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Glitazones: clinical effects and molecular mechanisms 3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Thiazolidinediones: the Forgotten Diabetes Medications 4. Medical News Today. Should I be worried about Fordyce spots?They are used commonly for laser treatment of a disorder known as sebaceous hyperplasia, in which the glands that cause Fordyce’s spots become enlarged. Pulsed dye lasers often leave less scarring than other treatment methods. If any changes are noticed on the genitals or face, they should be examined by a doctor. However, Fordyce spots are not a pressing health concern. References: 1. SingleCare. Glitazones 2. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Glitazones: clinical effects and molecular mechanisms 3. National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI). Thiazolidinediones: the Forgotten Diabetes Medications 4. Medical News Today. Should I be worried about Fordyce spots?