Fordyce’s spots/granules in oral cavity arises from: September 2002
**Core Concept:** Fordyce's spots or granules are small, yellowish, dot-like lesions that are commonly found on the mucous membranes of the oral cavity. They are benign, asymptomatic, and are present in approximately 90% of the adult population.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:** Fordyce's spots are caused by the presence of sebaceous glands within the oral mucosa. These glands, known as the eccrine glands, secrete an oily substance called sebum, which is composed of lipids, proteins, and water. The sebum mixes with saliva and remains on the oral mucosa, giving rise to the yellowish appearance of Fordyce's spots. The sebaceous glands are present in the oral mucosa due to their embryonic origin from the same structures as the skin appendages.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. This option is incorrect because it refers to apocrine glands, which are responsible for sweating and are present in the skin, not the oral mucosa.
B. This option is incorrect as it is related to eccrine glands, which are responsible for sweating, not the production of sebum.
C. This option is incorrect as it refers to the presence of sebaceous glands in the skin, not in the oral mucosa where Fordyce's spots are located.
D. This option is incorrect because it relates to the presence of sebaceous glands in the skin, not in the oral mucosa.
**Clinical Pearl:** The knowledge of Fordyce's spots is essential for clinicians, especially oral surgeons and dermatologists, to differentiate them from other mucosal lesions like mucoceles, salivary gland tumors, or even oral lesions from other sources like post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation or pigmented lesions. This can help in accurate diagnosis and treatment planning.