[Giant epidermoid cyst of the skull with extra and intracranial extension. A case report]

Abstract

Intradiploic epidermoid cyst of the skull is a rare clinical entity that can exceptionally grow to a large size with intracranial extension. The authors report the case of a 38-year-old man with a giant epidermoid cyst of the parietal bone with extra and intracranial extension, presenting with focal neurological symptoms. The diagnosis was suggested at imaging (skull radiographs, CT and MRI), and confirmed at histology. Complete removal of the cyst and its capsule was performed followed by cranioplasty. Postoperatively, the patient was discharged free of symptoms. CT scan provides good evaluation of the bony lesion and may suggest intracranial extension. MRI is superior for evaluation of cerebral compression. The pathogenesis, clinical presentation, diagnostic evaluation and therapeutic management of these rare lesions are reviewed.