Orbital dermoid cyst

Dermoid cyst, a developmental benign choristoma, is the most common orbital tumor of childhood, arising from ectodermal sequestration along the lines of embryonic fusion of mesodermal processes, lined by keratinized stratified squamous epithelium and expanding slowly due to constant desquamation and dermal glandular elements. Approximately 80% are found in the head and neck region and comprise 3-9% all orbital masses.

It is mandatory to know about the variable presentations of orbital dermoids and the surgical techniques that can be adopted based on the site, extent, age and aesthetic needs, presence of inflammation and possibility of intraoperative rupture.

Orbital dermoids can be classified as juxta-sutural, sutural or soft tissue cysts; superficial or deep; intraosseous or extraosseous, and intraorbital or extraorbital. These smooth, painless, mobile or partially mobile lesions mostly present at the fronto-zygomatic suture with proptosis, displacement, ptosis or diplopia, depending on depth and extent. Therefore, it is important to understand the various presentations and the appropriate surgical techniques.

We describe the embryological origin, types and clinical features of dermoids in this video and demonstrate the surgical and minimally invasive techniques for their management.

https://youtu.be/-q3xD2igjcQ.