Teratomas, Dermoids, and Epidermoids of the Head and Neck

Abstract Introduction

Cranial Epidermoid and Dermoid Inclusion Cysts Teratomas Summary

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Summary

Craniofacial teratomas are usually histologically benign lesions that manifest in children, often in the newborn period. They typically have a plurality of tissue differentiation, suggesting that they originate from two or more embryonic germ layers. At imaging, they are usually multiloculated, heterogeneous masses with calcification or scattered lipid foci. They may be life-threatening because their large size interferes with breathing or swallowing or because of their proximity to the brain. Because they often are sharply circumscribed masses, surgery is the treatment of choice and can be curative.

In contrast to teratomas, dermoid and epidermoid inclusion cysts are usually unilocular masses that can be encountered as incidental lesions or may be accompanied by minimal symptoms. These ectodermal inclusion cysts characteristically occur in the lateral orbit, the cerebellopontine angle, and the pontine and suprasellar cisterns. On radiologic images, epidermoids tend to be homogeneous, waterlike, and lateral, whereas dermoids may show lipid, with or without fat-fluid levels, and are typically midline, especially when they are intracranial. Occasionally, peripheral (not internal) calcification and enhancement are present in these inclusion cysts.

Abstract Introduction

Cranial Epidermoid and Dermoid Inclusion Cysts Teratomas Summary

Source Information References