Congenital inclusion cysts of the anterior fontanelle.

BACKGROUND

Congenital inclusion cysts of the anterior fontanelle are rare lesions. Both dermoid and epidermoid cysts are located in the midline of the scalp and occupy the subgaleal space.

METHODS

We report 7 cases, 4 boys (57.1%), and 3 girls (42.9%), with ages ranging from 3 months to 16 years (mean 40.85 +/- 68.56 months; median 10 months). Four patients (57.1%) were white and 3 (42.9%) were Afro-Brazilian.

RESULTS

The cysts had manifested soon after birth in all patients. They gradually enlarged, with no intracranial extensions. Four patients had dermoid cysts and the others had epidermoid cysts. All of them underwent surgery with complete excision of the cyst and no capsular rupture. There were no complications and no deaths.

CONCLUSIONS

Congenital inclusion cysts of the anterior fontanelle are rare lesions that usually manifest at birth. The diagnosis is usually easy and surgery is mandatory, with a good prognosis. Recurrence is rare.