Dermoid Cysts Dermoid cysts are among the commonest epithelial tissue malformation found in children. Histologically these cysts are subclassified into epidermoid, dermoid cysts and teratomas. Dermoids are non-tender, mobile, translucent, slowly growing tumors composed of keratin, hair follicles and sebaceous glands within a thin wall that contains epithelial elements. Midline dermoids are entrapped epithelium of branchial arch origin at the time of fetal midline fusion. Intraglossal dermoids have also been described.
Infection is the most common complication and is caused by repeated local trauma.
Those with intracranial extension are at risk of aseptic meningitis. History and physical exam are the most important element in the evaluation of neck masses in children. Complete surgical excision when the diagnosis is made is the treatment of choice. This type of tumor is either found unable to be resected during surgical exploration or judge inoperable by clinical evaluation or imaging studies. This factors significantly increase the risk of surgical morbidity, principally hemorrhage, during initial nephrectomy.