Dermoid Cysts of the Auricle: A Review of the Literature

Dermoid cysts are congenital anomalies that contain ectodermal elements such as teeth, bone, and nerves. The purpose of this study was to identify trends in the characteristics of dermoid cysts of the auricle and the demographics of the patient population they affect.

A PubMed and EMBASE search for English-language publications that included cases of dermoid cyst(s) of the auricle from database inception to October 2022 was performed.

A total of 38 cases of dermoid cysts of the auricle were identified from 20 publications. The age, sex, and Fitzpatrick skin type of the patients, locations of the dermoid cysts, associated anomalies, treatment methods, and postoperative outcomes were examined. Patients' ages ranged from 0 to 63 years, with 27.6% (8/29) in the 0-17 age range. 56.8% (21/37) were reported as male. Dermoid cysts were frequently present on the postauricular surface (18/24, 75.0%) and on light skin (Fitzpatrick types I-III; 18/22, 81.8%). Unilateral dermoid cysts were more commonly reported on the right ear (17/22, 77.3%); only one patient had bilateral cysts. Associated anomalies included microtia, prominent ears, foot polysyndactyly, hemifacial microsomia, and cryptotia. All auricular dermoid cysts were managed with complete surgical excision, and no postoperative complications or recurrences were reported.

Dermoid cysts of the auricle are reported more frequently in individuals with lighter skin; however, this is likely due to reporting bias. Complete surgical excision can be used to treat patients successfully, with a very low risk of complications and no need for preoperative imaging.