UNUSUAL CLINICAL PRESENTATION OF FORDYCE GRANULES

Abstract

Fordyce first described these ectopic sebaceous glands within the oral mucosa that cannot be associated with any hair structures inside mouth. In fact, they are considered to be a normal variation and can be seen in approximately 80% to 90% of the adult population. The most prevalent sites are the vermilion of the lips and the buccal mucosa. A 31-year-old man presented to our service with a main complaint of draining pus from his gums for the last year. Clinical examination revealed presence of granular yellowish papule in the alveolar mucosa between teeth 13/14 with a drainage orifice of yellowish and thick content inside. It was also possible to visualize a similar lesion on the contralateral region, teeth 23/24, but without draining. Radiographic examination was normal. Provisional diagnoses were Fordyce granules and fistula. An excisional biopsy was performed, and histologic diagnosis was Fordyce granules. This case represents an unusual clinical presentation of Fordyce granules.