Dermoidal cysts of head and neck in children

Introduction: Dermoid cysts are benign epidermal tumors; in 7% of cases, they are located in the head and neck region. They are lesions of congenital origin, mostly presenting within the midline of the body. About 70% of cases are diagnosed before the age of 5 years. Methods: A retrospective analysis of medical data of children with dermoid cysts located within the head and neck region treated in the Department of Pediatric Otolaryngology in Bialystok in the period of 1994-2014 was performed. A review of relevant literature was presented. Results: A total of 17 patients were included in this study, with a mean age of 8.9 years; 76.5% of the study population was female. Dermoid cysts were mostly located in the anterior neck region and the floor of the mouth (76%). US and CT imaging scans were used in diagnostics. No recurrences were observed after surgical excision. Conclusion: Dermoid cysts should be taken into consideration when diagnosing head and neck masses in pediatric patients.