BACKGROUND: Squamous papillary craniopharyngioma is a distinct entity, and its cytologic features may be misleading. Because of the rarity of this tumor, this case is being reported with a note on the cytologic features.
CASE: A 56-year-old Malay man who had 1-month history of generalized lethargy was admitted for altered sensorium. On examination, he was found to have neck stiffness, bilateral papilledema and generalized atrophy of muscles, with reduced power in all limbs. Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain showed a solid mass in the third ventricle causing obstructive hydrocephalus. Intraoperative cytology of the mass diagnosed intraventricular meningioma. However, the final histopathologic examination revealed squamous papillary craniopharyngioma.
CONCLUSION: Craniopharyngioma, squamous papillary type, is a rare entity and usually occurs in adults as an intraventricular solid tumor. Awareness of this entity will aid in arriving at the correct cytologic diagnosis.