About the Journal | Editorial Board | Instructions to Contributors | Submission & Review | Advertise with Us | Subscribe to E- Alerts
Sitemap | Feedback
Advanced search
Journal of Case Reports
Shadow Cells Meet Keratin: A Rare Follicular Hybrid Cyst of Epidermal and Pilomatricoma Origin
Arushi Gupta1, Shaaan Khetrapal1, Zeeba. S. Jairajpuri1, Fahad2
Departments of 1Pathology and 2Surgery, Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi 110062, India.
Corresponding Author:
Dr Shaan Khetrapal
Email: shaankhetrapal@gmail.com
Received: 27-MAY-2025 Accepted: 17-NOV-2025 Published Online: 25-MAY-2026
DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.17659/01.2026.0010
Abstract
Background: Follicular hybrid cysts (FHCs) are uncommon cutaneous lesions characterized by the co-existence of two or more distinct follicular components within a single cystic structure. Because of their nonspecific clinical appearance, they are frequently misdiagnosed as common benign cystic lesions. Histopathological examination plays a crucial role in establishing the correct diagnosis. Case Report: We report a case of a 68-year-old male who presented with a slow-growing nodular lesion over the back. The lesion was clinically suspected to be a benign cutaneous cyst. On histopathological examination, the cyst showed characteristic features of both epidermoid cyst and pilomatricoma, including keratinizing squamous epithelium and the presence of shadow cells. These findings confirmed the diagnosis of a follicular hybrid cyst composed of epidermoid and pilomatricoma components. Conclusion: Follicular hybrid cysts are rare lesions that may pose a diagnostic challenge due to their overlapping clinical features with other adnexal cysts. Recognition of their distinct histological components is essential for accurate diagnosis. Awareness of such unusual combinations helps clinicians and pathologists differentiate them from other cutaneous adnexal tumors and ensures appropriate management.
Keywords : Epidermal Cyst, Follicular Hybrid Cyst, Histopathology, Pilomatricoma, Skin Neoplasms.
Article Options
FULL TEXT
ABSTRACT
PDF
PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION
Search PubMed for
Search Google Scholar for
Article Statistics
Bookmark and Share