Dermoscopy to the Rescue: Diagnosing an Unruptured Epidermal Inclusion Cyst in a 12-Year-Old Boy

A 12-year-old boy presented with an asymptomatic, gradually enlarging nodule on his left cheek, diagnosed as an unruptured epidermal inclusion cyst (EIC) through dermoscopy and histopathological examination. Dermoscopy revealed characteristic features such as an ivory-white background, punctum, and peripheral linear-branched vessels. EICs are common benign cysts, often occurring on the face, neck, or trunk, and are more prevalent in men. They can be primary or secondary, with primary cysts arising from hair follicle infundibulum. Dermoscopy aids in distinguishing ruptured from unruptured cysts, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and informing treatment decisions. Complete surgical excision is recommended to prevent recurrence.