Dermoid Cyst Flashcards
1
Q
What is a dermoid cyst
A
A skin-lined cyst, deep to the skin. Can be congenital or acquired
2
Q
What causes a congenital dermoid cyst
A
Skin can become trapped in the subcutaneous tissues during foetal development
3
Q
What causes an acquired dermoid cyst
A
After an injury that forces skin into the deeper tissue
4
Q
What are the features of a dermoid cyst
A
Smooth spherical swelling
Soft and may fluctuate
Non-tender
5
Q
How would you treat a dermoid cyst
A
Congenital:
- Surgically excised (although rarely get infected so can be left alone)
- Full extent of the cyst should be established prior to surgery (X-ray/CT)
Acquired:
- Surgical treatment - complete excision of the cyst
6
Q
How do you differentiate sebaceous cysts from acquired dermoid cysts
A
Dermoid cysts are not attached to the skin
Dermoid cysts rarely become infected
Acquired dermoid cysts are usually accompanied by a scar and a history of an old injury
