Abstract
We recently experienced 18 cases of congenital fistula occurring in the anterior chest region. Most of the cases were accompanied by a secondary infection. This fistula was short and ended in the subcutaneous layer. A histological examination of the excised fistula showed it to be lined by a keratinizing squamous epithelium. Numerous hair follicles and sebaceous glands in varying stages of development were present in the wall. The most difficultdifferential diagnosis was found in subcutaneous dermoid cysts since they lacked a fistula. Therefore, we named this lesion au congenital dermoid fistula of the anterior chest region. A total excision of the fistulous tract is essential for radical management.
