Case of the Week
Section Editors: Matylda Machnowska1 and Anvita Pauranik2
1University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
2BC Children's Hospital, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
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March 11, 2013
Intraorbital Epidermoid Cyst
- Epidermoids and dermoids are examples of choristomas, i.e., tumors that originate from aberrant primordial tissue. Epidermoids have only squamous elements.
- Described as "Pearly Tumor" due to their gross appearance.
- Inner surface of the capsule is lined by stratified keratinizing epithelium.
- Clinically, they present as a localized swelling/mass.
- Key Diagnostic Features: Most epidermoid tumors exhibit a signal intensity that is similar to CSF but demonstrates diffusion restriction. No enhancement is seen following contrast administration.
- DDx: Lymphoproliferative lesions of the orbit like non-Hodgkin lymphomas; lymphangioma
- Rx: Surgical resection is curative. Entire cyst must be removed to prevent recurrence.
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