Primary Intradiploic Pterional Epidermoid Cyst

A 72-year-old woman who developed a left temporal protrusion was referred to our center. An MRI showed a heterogeneous mass in the left temple with T2 signal hyperintensity within the intradiploic space of the greater wing of the sphenoid bone, measuring 2.4 x 2.1 cm. The patient underwent a surgical removal of the mass through the pterional approach. Pathology showed an epidermoid cyst. Intradiploic epidermoid cysts of the skull are rare benign tumors of the skull. These lesions grow slowly and are composed of epidermoid cells debris rich in cholesterol. The prophylactic removal of these tumors with the goal of preventing recurrences is recommended.