Angiokeratoma of Fordyce is a common, benign skin condition characterized by small, dilated blood vessels near the skin’s surface. It is a type of vascular lesion and generally harmless, posing no serious health risk.
What is Angiokeratoma of Fordyce?
Angiokeratoma of Fordyce typically appears as small, dome-shaped bumps on the skin. These lesions can vary in color, ranging from dark red to purple or even black. Their size usually falls between 1 to 5 millimeters in diameter, though some can grow larger. The surface of these bumps may feel rough, pebbly, or scaly due to a thickening of the overlying skin.
The most common locations for Angiokeratoma of Fordyce are the scrotum and vulva, but they can also appear on the penis, inner thigh, abdomen, and inguinal folds. While they can resemble genital warts, these lesions are not contagious or sexually transmitted. Most individuals experience no symptoms, but the lesions may bleed if scratched or injured. They are considered benign vascular lesions.
Why Do They Form?
The exact cause of Angiokeratoma of Fordyce is not fully understood. However, their development involves the dilation of small blood vessels, specifically capillaries, close to the skin’s surface. This widening leads to the characteristic raised bumps.
Several factors may contribute to their appearance, including increased local venous pressure, which can occur in conditions such as varicocele or inguinal hernia. They are considered a normal anatomical variation rather than a disease. The prevalence of these lesions tends to increase with age, and they are more commonly observed in males.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
Diagnosis of Angiokeratoma of Fordyce is primarily made through a visual examination by a healthcare professional. A specialized magnifying tool called a dermatoscope can be used to visualize distinct features, such as dark or red lacunae, which are characteristic of these lesions. In cases where the diagnosis is uncertain or there is a need to rule out other skin conditions, such as melanoma, a skin biopsy may be performed.
Treatment for Angiokeratoma of Fordyce is generally not medically necessary, especially if the lesions are asymptomatic. However, removal may be considered if they cause discomfort, frequently bleed, or are a cosmetic concern for the individual. Various treatment options are available.
These include laser therapy (such as pulsed dye or CO2 lasers), cryotherapy, electrocautery or electrodessication, and surgical excision. Surgical excision may also be an option for single lesions or when a biopsy is required. While treated lesions are unlikely to reappear, new angiokeratomas can develop in other areas over time.