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Anterior fontanelle scalp cysts in infancy
1Department of Paediatric Surgery, Muhimbili Medical Centre, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
Insights
This study reviewed seven infants with anterior fontanelle scalp cysts, finding they were easily excised with no complications. Histology confirmed dermoid or sebaceous cysts in all cases.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Surgery
- Dermatology
- Cystic Lesions
Background:
- Anterior fontanelle scalp cysts are rare pediatric conditions.
- Management and histological findings of these cysts require further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe the clinical presentation, management, and outcomes of infants with anterior fontanelle scalp cysts.
- To analyze the histological types and surgical results of these congenital lesions.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective case series of seven infants treated for anterior fontanelle scalp cysts.
- Review of patient demographics, clinical history, surgical procedures, and histological findings.
- Assessment of preoperative and postoperative status, including developmental milestones.
Main Results:
- Seven pediatric patients (2 boys, 5 girls) aged 4-24 months presented with scalp cysts.
- Onset at birth in 6 cases; normal mental and motor development observed.
- All cysts were completely excised without intracranial communication; 6 were dermoid, 1 was sebaceous.
- No preoperative or postoperative complications were recorded.
Conclusions:
- Anterior fontanelle scalp cysts in infants are typically benign and amenable to complete surgical excision.
- Histological examination is crucial for diagnosis, with dermoid cysts being the most common type.
- Surgical management offers excellent outcomes with no significant complications.
Abstract:
Seven infant patients with anterior fontanelle scalp cysts who were managed at the Paediatric Surgical Department of Muhimbili Medical Centre, Dar-es-Salaam between January 1986 and December, 1992 were studied. They were all Africans. There were 2 boys and 5 girls. Their ages ranged from 4 months to 24 months. The onset was at birth in 6 infants while in one case it was at 3 months of age. Their mental as well as motor development was normal. They were all easily and completely excised and in none was there intracranial communication. The histology was that of dermoid cyst in 6 patients and sebaceous cyst in one. There were no preoperative or postoperative complications noted.