Comparative analysis between dermoid and epidermoid cyst

Introduction: epidermoid and dermoid cysts are benign lesions that often simulate a brain tumor, both clinically and imaging-wise. Objective: to comparatively characterize dermoid and epidermoid cysts. Method: a narrative review of the available literature was carried out using the synthetic and historical-logical analytical methods through articles retrieved from databases such as PubMed, Scopus, Scielo, Google Scholar, performed on epidermoid cysts during the months of June-July 2022. A total of 24 reference articles addressing the main clinical-epidemiological characteristics of the disease in question were selected. Development: epidermoid cysts arise from epithelial cells retained at the time of neural tube closure and can also occur after trauma. This type of cysts lack sebaceous glands and hair follicles, they are filled with epithelial cells, keratin, water and cholesterol, unlike dermoid cysts. The proximity to the cranial nerves adds to the semiology characteristics of their lesion by compression, especially at the base of the skull. Conclusions: epidermoid cysts are pearly lesions, congenital and in some cases acquired, they lack hair follicles and sebaceous glands, unlike dermoid cysts. The age of debut of dermoid cysts is usually in childhood, while for epidermoid cysts it is 40 to 50 years. The clinical manifestations of dermoid and epidermoid cysts depend on their location. The recommended treatment for this type of cysts is total surgical resection if possible.