Pediatric Periocular Dermoid Cysts: Incidence, Clinical Characteristics, and Surgical Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Pediatric Surgery
• Dermatology

Background:

• Periocular dermoid cysts are congenital tumors that present in infants and children.
• These benign growths can cause cosmetic concerns and, rarely, visual impairment if located near the eye.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the incidence and population-based frequency of periocular dermoid cysts in children.
• To analyze the clinical findings, including location and patient demographics.
• To evaluate the surgical outcomes and complication rates for these cysts.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective review of pediatric patients diagnosed with periocular dermoid cysts was conducted.
• Data collected included patient age, sex, cyst location, and surgical management.
• Population incidence was calculated based on live birth data over a 20-year period.

Main Results:

• The birth incidence of periocular dermoid cysts was found to be approximately 1 in 638 live births.
• Most cysts (81.5%) were located in the superotemporal orbital rim, with a mean age at diagnosis of 12 months.
• Surgical excision was performed in 88.9% of cases, with a 10.4% intra-operative rupture rate and a 4.2% recurrence rate. No post-operative complications were noted in cases of rupture.

Conclusions:

• Periocular dermoid cysts are relatively common in children, occurring in approximately 1 in 650 live births.
• The superotemporal orbital rim is the most frequent location for these cysts in young children.
• Surgical excision is effective, with rare ocular sequelae and generally favorable outcomes.