Scrotal trichilemmal cysts: a case report

Ann Med Surg (Lond). 2023 Apr 14;85(5):2166-2168. doi: 10.1097/MS9.0000000000000666. eCollection 2023 May.

Abstract

Trichilemmal cyst (TC), commonly known as the pilar cyst of the scrotum wall, is an uncommon disease. It is a type of epidermoid cyst (EC) with a benign course, and malignant change is quite rare. This disease is unusual in the scrotum; therefore, multiple cysts in the scrotum are much more unusual. There have been reports of TCs in other parts of the body, but this is the first instance of scrotal TCs in Pakistan.

Case presentation: We discuss the case of a 60-year-old male patient who presented to the clinic with a right-sided scrotal swelling, which was identified as a right-sided inguinal hernia on examination, and multiple small swellings on the scrotal skin identified as TCs. The patient had scrotoplasty after hernia surgery to remove the cysts and reconstruct the excised scrotum. Following scrotoplasty, the patient's discomfort was resolved, and cosmetic satisfaction was achieved.

Clinical discussion: Excision is required if TCs become infected or for esthetic reasons. In the event of big cysts, full scrotal wall resection followed by scrotoplasty is necessary. The thigh fasciocutaneous flap is used to cover the denuded testes after scrotoplasty. The procedure's advantages include a good outcome, low morbidity, early discharge, and great esthetic outcomes.

Conclusion: We present a literature review about multiple TCs in the scrotum and their surgical management. This case will guide surgeons and future researchers in dealing with similar cases in the future.

Keywords: epidermoid cyst; scrotoplasty; scrotum; sebaceous cysts.