Sebaceous Hyperplasia
Benign enlargement of sebaceous gland lobules around a central follicular opening, presenting as yellowish, umbilicated papules typically on the face.
Full Definition
Sebaceous hyperplasia is a common benign condition most often seen in middle-aged to older adults, characterised by overgrown but otherwise normal sebaceous glands. The lesions typically appear as 1–3 mm pale yellow papules with a central depression (dell) on the forehead, cheeks, and nose. Editors should distinguish this from sebaceous adenoma, which may be a marker of Muir–Torre syndrome, a distinction that carries clinical implications. The term 'hyperplasia' (increase in cell number) should not be confused with 'hypertrophy' (increase in cell size); both may appear in dermatopathology reports.
Usage
Usage note: Do not abbreviate. 'Hyperplasia' and 'hypertrophy' are not interchangeable; confirm correct term in histopathology descriptions.
In Context
- "Multiple yellowish umbilicated papules on the forehead were diagnosed clinically as sebaceous hyperplasia." — Dermatology outpatient letter
- "The editor queried whether 'sebaceous hypertrophy' in the draft should be corrected to 'sebaceous hyperplasia'." — Editorial query log