Scalp Nodules and Facial Droop in an Infant

Abstract

A previously healthy, term, 5-week-old girl initially presented to her primary care physician with a solitary, enlarging scalp nodule. The infant was otherwise well without additional signs or symptoms of illness. Over the next several weeks, the nodule continued to grow, and additional lesions appeared on her scalp. An ultrasound of the primary nodule revealed a hypoechoic structure favored to represent a serosanguinous fluid collection. After evaluation by general surgery and dermatology, she underwent a scalp biopsy of the largest lesion. While biopsy specimen results were pending, her parents noted that she was developing increased irritability, difficulty closing her right eye, and facial weakness. She was referred to the emergency department where a right-sided facial droop involving the brow and forehead was noted. The skin biopsy specimen results, along with subsequent laboratory studies and imaging, led to the final diagnosis.