Abstract
Epidermoid inclusion cysts, infundibular cysts, and retention cysts are dense, well-encapsulated
benign soft tissue lesions that develop after a portion of the epidermis has become
implanted in the dermis on a follicular surface such as the scalp, face, or trunk.
However, on acral surfaces such as the palms and soles, these cysts present <10% of
the time. Typically, these lesions will not progress to sizes >5 cm. However, a rare
subtype of epidermal cysts known as giant epidermal cysts tends to be much larger.
Unlike epidermal inclusion cysts, giant cysts lack a central punctum, present on areas
of thick skin lacking hair follicles, and affect an older patient population. Because
of their large size and unique characteristics, few cases of giant epidermal cysts
localized to the foot have been reported. We present a case report of a 57-year-old
male with a rapidly growing, large, ulcerated, atypical epidermal inclusion cyst that
had developed on the medial aspect of his hallux with underlying osseous changes.
In this particular case, the location, overlying skin changes, and rapid growth of
the lesion raised suspicion for malignancy. In the present report, we discuss the
unusual features of this particular cyst and the etiologies, treatment course, and
short-term outcomes regarding this unique tumor.
Level of Clinical Evidence
Keywords
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Article info
Publication history
Published online: December 15, 2017
Footnotes
Financial Disclosure: None reported.
Conflict of Interest: None reported.
Identification
Copyright
© 2017 by the American College of Foot and Ankle Surgeons. All rights reserved.
