In an extraordinary and captivating medical case, a 52-year-old woman from Bengaluru caught the attention of doctors when a peculiar swelling on her scalp turned out to be a fascinating “sack of marbles.” The intriguing discovery has shed light on the world of mature cystic teratomas, also known as dermoid cysts, bringing forth insights into their characteristics and rarity.
Untangling the Enigma of the “Sack of Marbles”
The woman had been living with the swelling on her scalp since childhood, but she did not seek medical attention until recently. A report published in Radiology revealed that a large cystic lesion, measuring 15 x 10 x 12 cm, was found in the parieto-occipital region of her scalp. The mass appeared as a cluster of varying-sized nodules floating within the cyst, earning it the nickname “Sack of Marbles.”
Upon an MRI scan, medical professionals noticed that the cystic lesion was hypointense with T1-weighted images and hyperintense with T2-weighted images. During the surgical procedure to remove the cyst, an intriguing array of materials was discovered, including sebum-like substances, hard spherules, and multiple hair strands. However, the most remarkable aspect of this peculiar case was that the sack did not recur even after six months of follow-up, leaving the medical experts astonished.
Figure: The diffusion MRI scan reveals nodules that display limited diffusion. The gross specimen photograph depicts a cyst containing a sebum-like substance, solid round nodules, and strands of hair. Image Credit: Radiology Journal2
What are Mature Cystic Teratomas?
Mature cystic teratomas are slow-growing, benign tumors commonly found in the head and neck area. Their unique appearance is due to various materials floating in a fluid matrix. First recorded in 1659, their occurrence is exceedingly rare, affecting only 1 in 20,000 to 1 in 120,000 births. Early detection is crucial for timely medical intervention.
Another instance involved a 25-year-old pregnant woman with a cystic mass in the fetus’s cervical area, which was successfully removed when the child was three months old, highlighting the urgency of prompt medical attention. These cysts are often silent, exhibiting no symptoms until they grow or impact nearby organs. Regular medical screenings are essential for early detection and appropriate treatment.
Promoting Awareness and Medical Vigilance
How can medical professionals effectively raise awareness about the importance of early detection and regular screenings for rare medical conditions?
Medical Approach: When Intervention is Necessary
Although mature cystic teratomas are typically benign, their removal is essential to prevent potential complications and definitively ascertain their nature. Surgical intervention is commonly recommended to safely remove the cysts and mitigate any risks they may pose to other nearby organs or tissues.
Conclusion
The discovery of a “sack of marbles” on a woman’s scalp in Bengaluru has astonished doctors due to its oddity, underscoring the necessity for ongoing medical research on mature cystic teratomas for improved diagnosis and treatment. These intriguing growths, composed of diverse components, captivate medical experts and researchers alike. The incident emphasizes the importance of prioritizing regular screenings to detect and treat such conditions early. While the enigma of the Bengaluru case has been solved, the intricacies of the human body persist, serving as inspiration for future medical breakthroughs that save lives. Let us remain curious and steadfast in unraveling these mysteries and enhancing healthcare protocols.
Hello Doc!
Have you encountered other extraordinary medical cases that have challenged conventional medical knowledge, and what insights have you gained from those experiences? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!
References
- “Sack of marbles” growing on Bengaluru woman’s scalp removed; know what it means. [Cited: August 07 2023]. Available from: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/sack-of-marbles-growing-on-bengaluru-womans-scalp-removed-know-what-it-means/articleshow/102351433.cms?from=mdr
- Thakar S, Vasoya P. “Sack of Marbles” Appearance of a Scalp Teratoma. Radiology 2023; 307(5): e230033. DOI: 10.1148/radiol.230033
