Nasal dermoid sinus cysts (NDSC) are rare congenital lesions that most frequently present in children, but have been reported in adults.

This article reviews adult (more than 16 years of age) nasal dermoid sinus cysts as they present, their radiological investigation, surgical approach and outcome. Thirty-eight previously published cases are reviewed, to which a further six cases are added.

All 44 cases are tabulated and reviewed. The risk of intracranial extension is 27.5 per cent, especially men with a dermal sinus. Recurrences are likely if the NDSC is not completely excised.

Curative treatment is surgical. It is recommended that all adults who present with a dermal cyst and/or sinus in the region of the nasal dorsum should be investigated by computed tomography (CT) and/or magnetic resonance (MRI). This is to delineate deep tissue involvement and to exclude a possible associated intracranial extension, prior to recommending surgical excision.