A dermoid cyst misdiagnosed as a lipoma in the auriculotemporal area

Abstract

A dermoid cyst is an unusual congenital anomaly that is lined by squamous epithelium and contains skin adnexal structures, such as sebaceous glands and hair follicles. Only a few cases of dermoid cysts have been reported to occur around the auricle and several benign tumors should be considered in the differential diagnosis. In this article, the authors have experienced a 12-year-old female with the congenital painless mass at the left auriculotemporal area. The computed tomography showed a low-contrast enhancing mass similar to adipose tissue. The lesion was considered as a lipoma until we observed the skin adnexal structures when it ruptured intraoperatively. Although benign tumors are rarely involved in the auriculotemporal area, presenting without symptoms, it is recommended of complete excision to prevent the possibility of malignancy, recurrence, or infection. Thus, we report a very rare case of a dermoid cyst of the auriculotemporal area with the literature review.