Rare finding of a symptomatic epidermoid cyst of the diaphragm – a case report

TL;DR

A rare case of a symptomatic epidermoid cyst in the diaphragm was diagnosed and treated through surgery, highlighting the difficulty in diagnosing such rare lesions.

Contribution

This case report adds to the limited literature on diaphragmatic epidermoid cysts, emphasizing their rarity and diagnostic challenges.

Findings

The patient's symptoms were resolved after surgical removal of the cyst.

Histology confirmed the diagnosis of an epidermoid cyst.

Only three prior cases of diaphragmatic epidermoid cysts have been reported.

Abstract

Cystic lesions of the diaphragm are rare and accordingly present a diagnostic challenge. Specific radiological features with which to clinch a diagnosis may be elusive. Herein we present the case of a patient who presented with symptoms attributable to a cyst in the left upper abdomen, irritating the diaphragm. Surgery was considered appropriate for diagnostic and symptomatic purposes. Final histology demonstrated an epidermoid cyst. Resolution of symptoms was reported after surgery. Diaphragmatic epidermoid cysts appear to be a rare entity with only three prior cases reported in the literature. Given the rarity of this lesion and the lack of unique features by which they can be characterized, accurately diagnosing epidermoid cysts of the diaphragm is likely to remain difficult without surgery, although they are presumed to have a benign behaviour.

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