Appendix epidermoid cyst: Presenting as an acute appendicitis

Abstract

Key Clinical MessageWe report a rare case of a cystic mass in an appendix in a patient who presented nausea, vomiting, and sharp pain in lower right abdomen and mimicking acute appendicitis. Although this entity is very rare, careful physical observation, imaging, and pathology can be helpful to make an accurate diagnosis.

Epidermoid Cyst in the Appendix: A Rare Entity

“…Acquired cysts are thought to be due to trauma or iatrogenic implantation of the epidermis in locations favorable to growth during surgery [ 8 ]. Clinical symptoms of intestinal epidermoid cysts may vary from slow-growing intra-abdominal masses, vague abdominal discomfort to acute abdominal pain [ 9 ]. Diagnosis is made by histopathological examination as imaging findings are nonspecific.…”