SURGICAL REMOVAL OF THE EPIDERMAL INCLUSION CYSTS WITH SQUEEZE TECHNIQUE: CASE REPORT

Abstract

Epidermal inclusion cysts are common benign cutaneous cysts which arise from hair follicles. These cysts usually present as asymptomatic, small, smooth, firm, round, slow growing swellings on hair bearing areas such as scalp, face, neck and trunk. Epidermal inclusion cysts are easily diagnosed by their clinical features. However, trichilemmal cyst, dermoid cyst, neurofibroma, hemangioma, lipoma and liposarcoma should also be kept in mind in differential diagnosis of cutaneous cystic lesions. As malignant transformation of epidermal inclusion cysts has been reported, histopathological evaluation of epidermal inclusion cysts is mandatory in order to rule out malignancy. Moreover, giant epidermal inclusion cysts with ulceration, rapid growth, resistance to treatment, recurrence and fistula drainage may have malignant potential. Therefore, epidermal cysts should be surgically removed. There are several different types of surgical techniques to remove cutaneous cysts. A proper surgical technique should facilitate the complete removal of the cyst wall to prevent recurrence. In addition, it should provide minimal scarring and a low wound infection rate. Epidermal inclusion cysts can be easily removed surgically with squeeze technique. In this technique, the cyst is squeezed out through a small incision using both index fingers. Thus, the cyst is not ruptured. The squeeze technique allows the cyst capsule to remain intact. Therefore, the risk of wound infection, recurrence and scar formation is minimized. Hereby, we present a 48-year-old male with multiple epidermal inclusion cysts on the scalp treated surgically with squeeze technique.