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Intermediate Technical In the Industry Vocabulary Test

Sebaceous Hyperplasia

A benign enlargement of sebaceous glands presenting as yellowish, umbilicated papules typically on the face of middle-aged to older adults.

Full Definition

Sebaceous hyperplasia refers to the benign overgrowth of mature sebaceous gland lobules around a central hair follicle, resulting in 2–5 mm yellowish, dome-shaped papules with a central dell or umbilication. It is most common on the forehead and cheeks of adults over 40 and is associated with chronic sun exposure, immunosuppression (particularly ciclosporin use), and the Muir–Torre syndrome. Editors should note that 'sebaceous' is the correct adjectival spelling (not 'sebacious') and that 'hyperplasia' is distinct from 'hypertrophy'. This entity appears in cosmetic dermatology reports, histopathology, and procedural consent forms.

Usage

Usage note: Spell-check: the common misspelling 'sebacious' should be flagged. 'Hyperplasia' (increased cell number) must not be substituted with 'hypertrophy' (increased cell size).

In Context

  • "Dermoscopy revealed sebaceous hyperplasia, allowing reassurance without the need for biopsy." — Dermoscopy report
  • "Multiple lesions of sebaceous hyperplasia were treated with electrodessication during the patient's cosmetic consultation." — Cosmetic dermatology procedure note

Don't confuse with

basal cell carcinoma milia syringoma

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