Fordyce Spots
Pronunciation: FOR-dice spots
Ectopic sebaceous glands appearing as small, yellowish-white papules on the oral mucosa or lip vermilion, representing a common anatomical variant rather than a pathological condition.
Full Definition
Fordyce spots are sebaceous glands that develop without associated hair follicles within oral mucosal epithelium, most commonly on the buccal mucosa and upper lip vermilion. They present as multiple, 1–2 mm, pale yellow to white papules that are asymptomatic and require no treatment. They are found in the majority of adults and are considered a normal anatomical variant. In an editorial context, the eponym is capitalised ('Fordyce') and 'spots' is written in lower case; the plural form is standard since lesions virtually always present as multiple. Editors should note this is distinct from Fordyce's disease (a very rare skin disorder).
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalise 'Fordyce'. Use 'spots' or 'granules' (both acceptable); avoid 'glands' alone as it may imply pathology. Distinguish from Fordyce's disease of the axilla.
In Context
- "The textbook labelled the yellowish papules on the buccal mucosa as Fordyce spots and noted they require no intervention." — Oral pathology textbook
- "Proofreaders should ensure 'Fordyce' is capitalised throughout, as it is an eponymous term referring to the dermatologist John Addison Fordyce." — Style guide note