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World Journal of Surgical Oncology

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Open Access 01-12-2014 | Case report

Surgery and outcomes of six patients with intradural epidermoid cysts in the lumbar spine

Authors: Huabin Yin, Dan Zhang, Zhipeng Wu, Wang Zhou, Jianru Xiao

Published in: World Journal of Surgical Oncology | Issue 1/2014

Abstract

Study design

This was a retrospective study.

Objective

The aim of this study was to analyze the clinical characteristics and discuss the treatment options for epidermoid cysts in the lumbar spine.

Summary of background data

Epidermoid cysts are rare benign neoplasms, which account for less than 1% of all intraspinal tumors. Due to their rarity, there are only a few case reports in the literature. Complete excision is the recommended treatment for an epidermoid cyst, but this is difficult to achieve in the spine. In spite of their benign nature, local recurrence is not uncommon for spinal epidermoid cysts after incomplete excision.

Methods

Six patients with an epidermoid cyst in the lumbar spine underwent surgical treatment in our center between 2004 and 2011. A total excision using microsurgical techniques and reconstruction was successfully undertaken in all patients. Clinical data and detailed pathologic results were retrospectively analyzed. All cases were followed up for a median time of more than 4 years. The clinical data and surgical efficacy were analyzed to suggest treatment options for epidermoid cysts in the lumbar spine on the basis of a literature review and our own experience.

Results

The mean age of the patients in this study was 37.7 years and the mean duration of pre-operative symptoms was 29.7 months (2 to 120 months). All patients were disease-free during their follow-up period. Radicular pain nearly disappeared, and patients suffering from neurologic deficits and defecation disorders recovered well.

Conclusions

Although an epidermoid cyst is a benign tumor, it is apt to recur locally following inadequate removal. Therefore, complete excision with preservation of neural function is an ideal protocol for intraspinal epidermoid cysts. Microsurgical techniques are very useful.

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Title: Surgery and outcomes of six patients with intradural epidermoid cysts in the lumbar spine
Authors: Huabin Yin
Dan Zhang
Zhipeng Wu
Wang Zhou
Jianru Xiao
Publication date: 01-12-2014
Publisher: BioMed Central
Published in: World Journal of Surgical Oncology / Issue 1/2014
Electronic ISSN: 1477-7819
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1186/1477-7819-12-50

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Surgery and outcomes of six patients with intradural epidermoid cysts in the lumbar spine

Abstract

Study design

Objective

Summary of background data

Methods

Results

Conclusions

Keynote webinar | Spotlight on medication adherence

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Study design

Objective

Summary of background data

Methods

Results

Conclusions

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