Intrinsic epidermoid of the brain stem: case report and review of the literature.

PURPOSE: Purely cystic brain stem epidermoid is a rare diagnosis among all brainstem cystic lesions. Further, it is very rare in pediatric age group.

METHODS: Here, we are reporting a rare case of completely cystic brain stem epidermoid in a child. The patient presented with clinical features of brain stem involvement. MRI brain was suggestive of cystic brain stem lesion.

RESULTS: Patient went through surgical procedure. Final diagnosis of epidermoid cyst was confirmed on histopathological report.

CONCLUSION: With the help of various advanced sequences of MRI like diffusion and ADC, diagnosis of epidermoid cyst can be established at unusual intracranial site also. Surgical resection of epidermoid cyst at brain stem should be attempted judiciously utilizing all modern tools of neurosurgery.