Epidermoid cysts of the fourth ventricle

An epidermoid cyst is a slowly growing, typically benign tumour, which requires surgical treatment. It usually develops in the cerebellopontine angle or the parasellar region, and occasionally appears in the ventricular system. It is unusual for an epidermoid cyst to place itself in the fourth ventricle. There have only been few published reports on this subject in recent years, and therefore, we would like to present a comprehensive description of a fourth ventricle epidermoid cyst diagnosed in two patients in a short period of time. Optimal recovery of the patient, with a minimal risk of tumour recurrence, is best accomplished by total microscopic removal of the tumour and its capsule.