Dermoid cyst of the eye: diagnosis, treatment

Localization of dermoid cysts

Frequent localization of dermoids are the upper or inner edge of the eye socket, the scalp, the temple area, the lower neck, the area of the sternum handle and the bottom of the oral cavity.

Diagnostics

Dermoid cysts are dense, rounded formations with clear boundaries that are not soldered to the skin and do not cause painful sensations. The size of the dermoids ranges from 0.5 to 4 cm. Usually, a dermoid cyst appears at 1-2 years of age and gradually increases in size.

Dermoid often has to be differentiated from atheroma (a tumor-like formation resulting from blockage of the duct of the sebaceous gland). The main difference is that atheroma is always soldered to the skin and is softer. Upon examination, the dermoid should also be distinguished from other tumor-like formations: hygroma, lipoma, fibroma, median cyst of the neck, lymphadenitis.

Complications

The main complication of a dermoid cyst is its suppuration with the formation of a fistula, which requires opening the cyst and drainage.

Treatment

The treatment of a dermoid cyst is surgical only. It is necessary to completely remove the membranes of the dermoid cyst. In young children, the cyst is removed under anesthesia; over the age of 7, the operation can be performed under local anesthesia.

At the EMC, we use a technique of operations with minimal incisions, there are no traces of the operation. The use of modern technology and the application of cosmetic sutures allows you to let the child go home within 2-3 hours after the operation. Unlike traditional methods, there is practically no pain after surgery and the child forgets about the operation after 2-3 days.

The author of the article is Viktor Makarov, PhD, ophthalmologist and surgeon at the EMC Children's Clinic.