[Fourth ventricule epidermoid cyst: about a case].

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Neuropathology
• Neuroradiology

Background:

• Epidermoid cysts are rare, benign tumors originating from ectodermal inclusions.
• Typically found in the cerebellopontine angle, parasellar region, or temporal fossa.
• Fourth ventricle location is exceptionally rare.

Observation:

• A 47-year-old woman presented with symptoms of intracranial hypertension and gait disturbance.
• Diffusion MRI suggested an epidermoid cyst in the fourth ventricle.
• Diagnosis was confirmed intraoperatively and histologically.

Findings:

• Subtotal surgical excision was performed due to adherence of the cyst capsule to the fourth ventricle floor.
• The patient experienced no tumor recurrence during a 36-month follow-up period.

Implications:

• This case highlights the possibility of fourth ventricle epidermoid cysts, despite their rarity.
• Effective diagnosis using diffusion MRI and successful surgical management are demonstrated.
• Long-term follow-up confirms the benign nature and potential for complete resection of these tumors.