Tyson Glands: Risk Factors, Causes, Symptoms, Diagnosis, Complications, Treatment, Prevention and Prognosis

They can range in color from white to red and are generally 2-3mm (each) in size.

The prominent sebaceous glands of the penis are small, raised papules, multiple in number that occur on the shaft of the penis.

These papules are actually sebaceous glands that have increased in size. The prominent sebaceous glands of the penis are not infectious and are not sexually transmitted.

There are no clear identified risk factors for the condition and the cause remains unknown. Prominent sebaceous glands on the penis are commonly seen in middle-aged men.

In general, no treatment is required for the condition; however, if they have cosmetic problems, laser surgery or excision may be performed. The prognosis of the prominent sebaceous glands of the penis is excellent, regardless of whether or not treatment is provided.

Who has Tyson glands?

  • The prominent sebaceous glands of the penis are a common condition in boys and men; it is most noticeable during middle age.
  • Prominent sebaceous glands on the genitals are more common in men than women.
  • The condition can occur worldwide and no geographic preference is seen. People of all racial and ethnic backgrounds can be affected.

Which are the risk factors?

Risk factors for Tyson’s glands are unknown.

It is important to note that having a risk factor does not mean that one will get the condition. A risk factor increases the chances of contracting a disease compared to an individual without the risk factors. Certain risk factors are more alarming than others.

Just because you don’t have a risk factor doesn’t mean you can’t get the condition.

What are the causes of Tyson’s glands?

  • The exact cause of Tyson’s gland development is unknown.
  • The condition is not contagious and does not spread from one individual to another.
  • There is no definitive evidence that certain types of diet can influence its development.

what are the signs and symptoms?

There are no significant signs and symptoms of prominent oil glands on the penis. The appearance of the papules can be described as:

  • Presence of small and multiple papules that vary in color from white to red on the shaft of the penis.
  • These papules are prominent sweat glands (sebaceous glands) and are normal structures of the body.
  • Papules are most visible when the skin of the penis is stretched (such as during an erection).
  • White whitish discharge may appear if these prominent lesions are compressed.

How are Tyson’s glands diagnosed?

The following are diagnostic methods to help identify Tyson’s glands:

  • A complete physical exam and a complete medical history are very important. Diagnosis of prominent sebaceous glands of the penis can be obtained by visually examining the papules.
  • Dermoscopy: Dermoscopy is a diagnostic tool where a dermatologist examines the skin with a special magnified lens.

A biopsy of the papule is usually not necessary.

Many clinical conditions can have similar signs and symptoms. Your doctor may carry out other tests to rule out other diseases or medical conditions and arrive at a well-established diagnosis.

What are the possible complications?

No significant complications have been reported due to the prominent sebaceous glands of the penis. However, some people may have stress and anxiety problems for fear that the condition is a sexually transmitted infection.

Some people face cosmetic problems due to the appearance of the papules, in which case surgery may be proposed.

How are Tyson’s glands treated?

Treatment for the prominent sebaceous glands of the penis is not required as it is a benign condition.

  • Providing reassurance and support that the condition is harmless and has an excellent outcome.
  • Some people may consult health professionals to rule out sexually transmitted infections (if any).
  • People, in whom it causes cosmetic problems, can undergo surgical excision or laser therapy to remove them.

How can they be prevented?

Currently, there are no specific methods or guidelines to prevent prominent oil glands on the penis.

What is the prognosis for Tyson’s glands?

The prominent sebaceous glands of the penis are a common, benign (not cancerous) disease that has an excellent prognosis. It is not clinically important, but it can cause anxiety in some people.

Additional Information

  • There is no evidence to show that fatty foods and chocolate-based products influence the prominent sebaceous glands of the penis.
  • The presence of dirt on the body is not a causal factor for the condition. However, it helps to be clean and hygienic, which can help make the condition worse.