Cerebral Dermoid Tumours

Abstract

Four cases of cerebral dermoid tumour with an intraventricular, occipital and sellar location are reported, representing 0.04% of the verified cerebral tumours in the authors' statistics. A recurrence occurred after one year in the first case of intraventricular dermoid tumour; after the second operation aseptic meningitis developed and the patient died. In the second case microscopic examination revealed aspects of malignant transformation of the tumour. The symptoms did not differ from those of other cerebral tumours. Operations should be radical whenever possible, avoiding dispersion of the tumour contents in order to prevent a recurrence or aseptic meningitis.

Skull Base Dermoid Cyst in the Right Infratemporal Fossa Diagnosed Using the Dixon Technique: a Case Report and Review of Literature

“…Dermoid cysts, probably originating from ectodermal remnants, are situated quite close to midline structures and are usually observed during childhood (4). The etiology of these tumors involves primitive ectodermal cells and mesenchymal elements from closing neuroectodermal folds, during weeks 3-5 of gestation.…”

“…Intracranial dermoid cysts most commonly occur in the posterior fossa, around the cerebellar vermis and the fourth ventricle. They occur less frequently in the supraparasellar, pineal, and parapontine regions (4). Dermoid cysts in the head and neck regions have been reported to occur specifically in the fontanels, cavernous sinus, petrous apex, Eustachian tube, periorbital or perinasal soft tissue, and scalp.…”

Dermoid cyst in brain

“…Presence of adnexal structures like sweat glands, sebaceous glands and hair follicles differentiates it from epidermoid cysts. Definitive treatment is surgical removal 8. Incomplete removal may results in recurrence.…”

Interdural giant dermoid cyst of the petrous apex

“…[8][9][10] Those located at the PA are rare with only few reports in the literature. Gacek argues persuasively that dysembryogenetic tumours of the PA originate in the area of the foramen lacerum, because it contains embryologic remnants of both ectoderm and mesoderm and thus seems the most likely origin of many of these tumours, including DCs.…”