Characteristics of Dermoid Cyst of the Auricle

BACKGROUND: Dermoid cysts of the auricular area are extremely rare. We report on six cases of auricular dermoid and epidermoid cyst, and differentiate dermoid cyst from epidermal cyst along with a review of the literature. METHODS: Three cases involved a gradually enlarging mass of the superior and anterior aspect of the helix of their ear. Another two cases were located in the posterior aspect of the ear. RESULTS: During the operation, a tumor was found just under the skin, not fixed mastoid or adjacent cartilage. Histologically, all specimens contained desquamated squamous epithelium and keratin in the lumen. However, two cases of posterior masses showed the presence of adnexal structures and three cases did not. CONCLUSION: A key in diagnosis of the dermoid cyst is the presence of adnexal structures. If the wall does not bear adnexal structures, the term epidermoid or keratin cyst is applied. Acquired cysts are most commonly of traumatic origin and result from an implantation or downward displacement of an epidermal fragment. Finally, the congenital epidermoid cyst grew at the upper part of the auricle; however, the dermoid cyst grew at the lower and posterior part of the auricle.