Epidermoid Cyst in the Middle Cranial Fossa Associated with Trigeminal Neuralgia: Case Report

ABSTRACT

We have recently experienced a rare case of extradural epidermoid cyst in the left middle cranial fossa associated with trigeminal neuralgia. A 22-year old female has intermittently developed lancinating pain in the left of face and dark reddish rhinorrhea for 5 years. Plain skull films showed an elevation of lesser wing of sphenoid bone and protrusion of left zygomatic arch with deepening of left middle cranial fossa. Carotid angiograms and brain scan with technetium 99m revealed a large cystic mass in left middle cranial fossa. A left temporal craniotomy was done and a large cystic mass filled with dark bluish colored fluid was removed at the left middle cranial fossa. Postoperatively the trigeminal neuralgia subsided completely. We have discussed the pathogensis and clinical symptoms with the review of the literatures.