Post-traumatic Epidermal Inclusion Cyst of the Index Finger: A Surgical Case Report

Epidermoid cysts of the distal phalanx have rarely been reported in practice, although they are known to occur following penetrating trauma and pressure erosion. Notably, the distinction between epidermoid and dermoid cysts is unclear, with both terms being used interchangeably. However, epidermoid cysts are more commonly documented in the literature. We describe the case of a carpenter in his 40s presenting with a lesion on the distal phalanx of his left index finger following a history of trauma to the same area two years ago. This was presumed to be an abscess and incision and drainage were planned. A keratinous epidermoid cyst was diagnosed through histopathological study of the thick-walled cystic structure isolated after dissection. The lesion resolved successfully and healing was uneventful. This report contributes valuable insights into the diagnosis and management of epidermoid cysts of the fingers post-trauma, an underexplored topic in the existing literature.