Commentary

The authors report a “complication” associated with a prior otolaryngological procedure for chronic otitis media. They review the findings associated with an epidermal inclusion cyst and detail the associated pathology. Given the intracranial extension of this process, they comment on the neurosurgical team's involvement in performing a subtemporal approach.

Epidermoid cysts resulting from prior procedures are relatively well known. However, it is rare to find a case with the qualities of this particular report; that is, a recurrent intracranial epidermal inclusion cyst requiring combined treatment with neurosurgery.

This report alerts otolaryngologists to possible complications associated with this surgical procedure and cautions that it may be advantageous to use the neurosurgical team to approach the intracranial aspects of the cyst and to ensure a meticulous closing to avoid leakage of cerebrospinal fluid.