Dermoid Cyst of the Parotid Gland

A dermoid cyst of the head and neck region is a relatively infrequent occurrence and accounts for only 6.9% of all dermoid cysts. Its anatomical distribution is the orbit, floor of the mouth, other midline and nose in the order of frequency. A dermoid cyst of the parotid gland is extremely rare, and due to this and the absence of pathognomonic findings, it is often difficult to diagnose preoperatively. Thus thorough and careful examination including ultrasonic study is needed to evaluate this lesion. It must be differentiated from malignant tumors and other cystic lesions. Dermoid cysts usually recur after simple excision, so it is mandatory to excise it completely with a parotidectomy. This paper presents two cases of parotid gland dermoid cyst with a brief review of the literature.