Challenges in diagnosing and treating lumbosacral dermoid cyst in an older patient: illustrative case

Dermoid cysts typically contain hair, sebaceous material, and calcifications. Their capsule may adhere firmly to the spinal cord or nerve roots. Careful surgical manipulation is essential to prevent injury and subsequent chemical meningitis. Preoperative recognition of this pathology is crucial for surgical planning, patient counseling, and minimizing intraoperative risks. Awareness of this rare condition in older patients can lead to more accurate preoperative diagnosis and improved clinical outcomes. https://thejns.org/doi/10.3171/CASE25883.