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Lateral cephaloceles: case-based update
R Shane Tubbs1, Elizabeth Hogan, Aman Deep
1Pediatric Neurosurgery, Children's Hospital, 1600 7th Avenue South ACC 400, Birmingham, AL 35233, USA. shane.tubbs@chsys.org
Summary
Atretic encephaloceles are rare lateral skull masses. This case highlights the importance of considering lateral encephaloceles in newborns with skull lesions.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Developmental Biology
- Pediatric Neurosurgery
Background:
- Lateral skull masses, including lipomas and epidermoids, are relatively common.
- Meningoceles of the lateral skull are rare and frequently misdiagnosed.
- Atretic encephaloceles in this region are exceptionally rare.
Observation:
- A case report of a newborn presenting with a right atretic encephalocele at the asterion is described.
- The lesion involved the lateral skull region.
Findings:
- Atretic encephalocele is a rare congenital abnormality.
- Differential diagnosis for anterolateral and posterolateral fontanelle lesions should include lateral cephaloceles/encephaloceles.
Implications:
- Increased awareness of atretic encephaloceles is crucial for accurate diagnosis.
- Understanding the embryology of these rare entities aids in diagnosis and management.
- This case underscores the need for a broad differential diagnosis in neonatal skull masses.
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