Resection of anterior orbital meningoencephalocele in a newborn infant.

An 11-day-old infant was referred for a large, fleshy swelling at the right medial canthus, which was noticed at birth. CT of the skull showed protrusion of brain tissue within the mass, from which a diagnosis of meningoencephalocele was made. The mass was subsequently resected by a team of physicians represented by ophthalmology, otolaryngology, and neurosurgery. Follow-up showed good cosmetic and functional results. Meningoencephaloceles usually need prompt attention to ensure a good visual and cosmetic result. Imaging before surgery and pathologic analysis are both necessary steps to successful management. Prognosis is excellent unless associated with other comorbid conditions such as Dandy-Walker syndrome, holoprosencephaly, or agenesis of the corpus callosum.