Recurrent postauricular dermoid cyst: A case report

Introduction: Dermoid cysts are congenital anomalies that arise from trapped pouches of the ectoderm near the normal fold or from the surface that has failed to separate from the neural tube. Dermoid cysts are very rare in head and neck area and its presence in postauricular region is further exceptionally rare. Only a few cases have been reported. In this study, a rare case of recurrent dermoid cyst located behind the ear with abnormal gradual growth over several years is reported which to the best of our knowledge has not been reported earlier. Case Report: A 18­year­old female presented with a swelling in the right postauricular area since six years. This swelling underwent excision six years back. Examination showed a solitary, cystic 4x3x2 cm, smooth surfaced swelling in the right postauricular area with a 2 cm ill­defined scar at the center. Ultrasonography was suggestive of a benign lesion. Fine needle aspiration cytology showed infected epidermal cyst with chronic inflammation. Through the postauricular incision an encapsulated cystic structure with embryonal cells was excised. Conclusion: Patient sought medical advice in our case for the cosmetic reason because of the embarrassing look of the prominent unilateral ear. Her concern to avoid getting a recurrence besides cosmetic correction was successfully taken care of in our case.