Vulval epidermoid cysts in the Igbos of Nigeria

Abstract

Epidermoid cysts are reported to be uncommon on the vulva. However, among the Igbos of Nigeria, the vulva was the most common site of such cysts in a series of specimens examined at a central laboratory. Vulval epidermoid cyssts probably arise as a result of traumatic implantation during ritual circumcision.

Vulvar Epidermoid Cyst and Type 2 Radical Genital Mutilation

“…The long term complications are frequent urinary tract infections, infertility, sexual problems, increase in postpartum complications, epidermal cyst-like lesions, and an increase in psychological problems as a result of the aforementioned [ 17 , 18 ]. Epidermoid cysts are benign multilobulated cystic lesions that can be seen at any area of the human body including the epithelium layer, especially in areas exposed to trauma such as the face, neck, inner surface of the ear, hand and foot, back, extremity, and scalp [ 5 , 6 , 8 , 9 ]. In closed ethnic societies, in particular, it is seen as a mass in the chronic period as a complication of a surgical or traumatic procedure following female genital mutilation.…”

“…Epidermoid tumors are intradermal or subcutaneous tumoral lesions of epidermis origin and, in particular, epidermoid cysts develop as a result of implantation of superficial epidermal tissue on dermal or subcutaneous tissue following trauma or surgical procedures [ 6 , 7 ]. Epidermoid cysts can be localized at any part of the human body, especially inside the mouth, in the extremities, and on the scalp when exposed to trauma; however, they are rarely seen in the vulvar region [ 8 , 9 ]. Epidermoid vulvar cysts are generally multicystic and slow growing and their growth rates slow down after reaching a size of 5 × 6 cm and continue to grow in chronic grounds.…”

Epidermal inclusion cyst as a rare complication of neonatal male circumcision: a case report

“…These cysts can occur in various parts of the body but are found most commonly in the vulva, especially in populations where female circumcision is practised [5,6]. In addition to arising from surgical implantation of epidermal tissue, as in this patient, these cysts may also arise from the sequestration of epidermal rests during embryonic life, occlusion of the pilosebaceous unit or traumatic implantation of epithelial elements.…”

Epidermal cyst in an unusual site: A case report

“…They are formed as a result of invagination of keratinized squamous epithelium [1] . Epidermal cysts can be located in any part of the body, though mainly on the face, torso, extremities and scalp, but they are rarely localized on the vulva [2,3] . Vulvar epidermoid cysts have been reported to be frequently localized on the clitoral region and labia majora [4–10] .Vulvar epidermal cysts are frequently multicystic and the diameter of the largest loculus is less than 1 cm.…”