Fordyce Condition

Hi,
   I have had very small white spots on my lips since I was around thirteen (now 20). I am almost certain that it is fordyce condition; however, I also have identical spots on my penis and am worried about it being other things. The spots on my penis have also been there since I was thirteen, appearing in both places without sexual contact of any kind. They appear around on the shaft and never evole into anything worse, but more do appear. They now appear around the ridge of the tip (they appeared about a year ago). They never blister or break, they are just sort of there and keep formulating. They also are either underneith the skin or appear to be barely coming through. I have been researching genital herpes and nothing states whether or not symptoms of it are constant - it sounds like they show up, blister, and go away until the next outbreak, leaving no traces such as what I think these white spots might be. I would really really appreciate your thoughts and advice.
       Thank You So Much!

[Jasmina Jankicevic, MD, MSc, CCRP]

Welcome to the Dermatology Expert Forum!

The description you provided resonates the most with Fordyce condition - normal variant of the skin of scrotal sac, penile shaft and vermillion of the lips. However, clinical evaluation is necessary for that final diagnosis.

Clinical findings and evolution of lesions do not point towards genital herpes at all.

Being distressed about somewhat unusual skin changes is very natural. It is good to be reassured by an expert. Therefore, writing to us was a good first step and seeing a dermatologist is recommended next step to put your worries behind you.

Wishing You Optimal Health,
Dr Jasmina Jankicevic

[z726]

Fordyce's spots on the penis are actually fairly common, and nothing to worry about. Their appearance, like the ones on your lips, would be caused by ectopic sebaceous glands. If you're concerned they might be anything else, you'd want to see a dermatologist about it though.

[Glen_d]

This was very helpful, but I have one more concern. I can find anything that mentions the spots on the actual skin of the tip of the penis - they all mention only on the ridge, but I have them on the actual skin between the ridge and where it ends. Is this still part of the same condition?