Ruptured Orbital Dermoid Cyst Masked as a Migraine in a 25-Year-Old Male

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Neurology
• Pathology

Background:

• Dermoid cysts, a type of teratoma, are common scalp and skull masses in children.
• Orbital dermoid cysts are exceptionally rare primary orbital tumors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a case of an orbital dermoid cyst in a young adult.
• To reinforce the importance of clinical practice guidelines for intracranial imaging in cases of new-onset or altered chronic headaches.

Main Methods:

• A case study of a 25-year-old male with new-onset migraines, eye pain, and blurred vision.
• Intracranial imaging was performed as per clinical practice guidelines.
• Surgical excision and pathological confirmation of the orbital mass.

Main Results:

• Intracranial imaging revealed an orbital mass.
• Surgical pathology confirmed the mass as an orbital dermoid cyst.

Conclusions:

• Orbital dermoid cysts are rare, particularly in primary care settings, often presenting with subtle symptoms.
• This case highlights the need for a low threshold for intracranial imaging in patients with new-onset or changed chronic headaches.