No bones about it: a case of infected intradural dermoid cyst mimicking primary orthopedic pathology

Abstract

Introduction Dermoid cysts are benign developmental tumors that arise from the inclusion of ectodermal and mesenchymal components within the neural groove during embryonic development. Infection is rare and can lead to profound neurologic sequelae that closely mimic orthopedic or rheumatologic pathology. Case Report A previously healthy 2 year old male presented with 4 month history of progressive pain and refusal to ambulate or bear weight in his lower extremities. His initial decline began with falls while walking or running, followed by unilateral lower extremity pain, then bilateral lower extremity pain, and eventually refusal to ambulate. He also had …