Epidermoid tumor in the sphenoid sinus--case report

A 36-year-old male presented with a very rare epidermoid tumor in the sphenoid sinus manifesting as paresis of the right sixth cranial nerve and diplopia. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging revealed a mass lesion in the sphenoid sinus expanding to the clivus. The cystic tumor, which contained cholesterin crystals, was extensively removed via the transsphenoidal approach. Histological examination showed epidermoid cell layers, consistent with the diagnosis of epidermoid tumor. Epidermoid tumors should be considered in the differential diagnosis of lesions in the sphenoid sinus.