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Introduction
An atretic encephalocele is a small midline lesion of the scalp and underlying tissues that is usually situated in the parietal or occipital regions. Atretic encephaloceles are composed of a fibrovascular stalk, neuroglial elements, and embryonic vessels. They are usually diagnosed during a routine neonatal examination and commonly have a rather innocent appearance. However, they often produce parental anxiety about their nature and prognosis. Surgical treatment of atretic encephaloceles is indicated for diagnosis, esthetics, or relief of pain.
Key Points
- Scalp defect or lesion found on examination of neonate: Atretic encephaloceles are readily detected at the neonatal examination as small midline scalp nodules.
- MRI helpful: MRI and magnetic resonance venography (MRV) usually confirm the diagnosis of atretic encephalocele.
- Surgery must protect sagittal sinus: Surgery should be performed by neurosurgeons to avoid a potential injury to the adjacent sagittal sinus
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