Primary Splenic Epidermoid Cyst: A Case Report

Primary splenic epidermal cysts, a type I splenic lesion, are very uncommon and usually found coincidentally. In this report, we present a primary splenic epidermal cyst that presented as a mass in the left upper quadrant associated with sharp pain, early satiety, and constipation. We review the classification of splenic cysts with a detailed look into the causes and types of type I cysts. We discuss the different treatment options, how current and past surgical options are controversial, and indications for splenectomy in spleen cysts. We explore how percutaneous drainage as a bridge to splenectomy may have been beneficial in a splenic cyst of great size. This splenic cyst was attempted laparoscopically but converted to an open splenectomy after complications. The patient recovered with no difficulties postoperatively.