Presternal giant epidermal cyst: 2 cases

Manef Gasmi1, Radhia Jemaï, Fatma Fitouri

  • 1Department of paediatric surgery "A", Children Hospital, Tunis, Tunisia.

Insights

Giant epidermal cysts in the presternal area are rare in children. Surgical excision is recommended due to potential malignant degeneration, with imaging aiding diagnosis.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatric Surgery
  • Dermatology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Epidermal cysts are common benign skin lesions.
  • Presternal location and large size are rare, particularly in pediatric patients.

Observation:

  • Two pediatric cases of giant presternal epidermal cysts are presented.
  • Lesions appeared in the neonatal period, rapidly growing after minor trauma.
  • Clinical examination revealed large, mobile, subcutaneous cystic masses.

Findings:

  • Imaging (ultrasound, MRI) confirmed subcutaneous cystic masses without mediastinal involvement.
  • Histological examination verified the diagnosis of epidermal cysts.
  • Surgical excision with direct cutaneous closure was successful in both cases.

Implications:

  • Giant presternal epidermal cysts present diagnostic challenges in children.
  • Advanced imaging techniques are crucial for accurate diagnosis.
  • Mandatory surgical excision is advised due to the risk of malignant transformation.
Abstract

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