تحقيقا للهدف الثالث وهو الصحة الجيدة والرفاه قام قسم تقنيات صناعة الاسنان بنشر مقاله علمية بعنوان Fordyce Granules لمقرر القسم م.م. مها حسين ديوان وذلك يوم الاثنين الموافق 7/4/2025 وتضمنت المقالة:<br />Fordyce Granules<br />Fordyce granules are common and benign ectopic sebaceous glands that appear as small, pale, or yellowish papules on the mucosal surfaces of the oral cavity or genital regions. They are named after John Addison Fordyce, who first described them in 1896. While Fordyce granules are considered a normal anatomical variation and are not associated with any disease or malignancy, their appearance can sometimes raise concerns for patients unfamiliar with them.<br /><br /><br />Etiology and Pathophysiology<br />Sebaceous glands are typically associated with hair follicles in the skin, where they produce sebum, an oily substance that lubricates the skin and hair. However, Fordyce granules represent sebaceous glands located in areas devoid of hair follicles, such as the oral mucosa. The ectopic location of these glands is considered a developmental anomaly that occurs during embryogenesis.<br />Fordyce granules are more common in adults than in children and are believed to become more prominent after puberty, likely due to hormonal influences that stimulate sebaceous gland activity.<br />Clinical Presentation<br />Fordyce granules are usually asymptomatic and are most commonly observed on:<br />• The buccal mucosa (inside the cheeks)<br />• The vermilion border of the lips<br />• The retromolar area<br />They appear as multiple, well-circumscribed, tiny (1–3 mm) papules that are yellow, white, or pale in color. In rare cases, they may also be found on the genital mucosa, such as the shaft of the penis or labia.<br /><br />Diagnosis<br />The diagnosis of Fordyce granules is typically clinical and based on their characteristic appearance. A thorough oral examination by a dentist or physician is usually sufficient to differentiate them from pathological conditions. If there is any doubt, a biopsy can be performed, although this is rarely necessary.<br />Differential diagnoses include:<br />• Candidiasis: White patches that can be scraped off, often associated with a burning sensation.<br />• Leukoplakia: White patches that cannot be scraped off and may require biopsy due to potential malignant transformation.<br />• Sebaceous hyperplasia: Enlarged sebaceous glands seen on the skin, not mucosa.<br /><br />Fordyce granules do not require treatment as they are benign and asymptomatic. However, patients may seek reassurance from a healthcare provider if they are concerned about their appearance or confused about their nature.<br />In rare cases where cosmetic concerns arise, treatments like laser therapy or topical retinoids have been explored, but these are not typically recommended due to the benign nature of the condition.<br />Conclusion<br />Fordyce granules are a normal anatomical variant and should not be a cause for concern. Proper education and reassurance are often all that is needed to address patient concerns. Their benign nature and lack of association with disease make them an important feature to recognize during routine oral examinations.<br /><br />جامعة المستقبل الجامعة الاولى في العراق