DERMOID CYST OF INGUINAL CANAL MASQUERADING AS IRREDUCIBLE INGUINAL HERNIA: A CASE REPORT WITH REVIEW OF LITERATURE

INTRODUCTION: Dermoid cysts are common developmental anomalies occurring along embryonic fusion lines. Occurrence of this in inguinal region is rare and imposes diagnostic challenge as it confuses the clinician as irreducible inguinal hernia. CASE REPORT: Fifty years male patient presented with irreducible left inguinal hernia. Exploration of the left inguinal canal revealed a cyst (7cm x 5cm) in the floor of the inguinal canal separated from the cord structures. The cyst was opened and foul smelling muddy paste like material came out. Cyst was completely excised. The histopathology was consistent with a dermoid cyst. The patient is doing well at five month follow up. CONCLUSION: Inguinal dermoid cyst mimicking irreducible hernia is rare but possible entity. If such cyst is encountered during hernia operation, complete excision is to be contemplated.