Primary ectopic frontotemporal craniopharyngioma

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Pathology
• Oncology

Background:

• Craniopharyngiomas typically occur in the sellar/suprasellar region.
• Primary ectopic craniopharyngiomas are exceptionally rare.
• This case details an unusual frontotemporal location.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present the first documented case of a primary ectopic frontotemporal craniopharyngioma.
• To describe the clinical presentation, surgical approach, and histopathological findings.
• To highlight the rarity and unique aspects of this tumor location.

Main Methods:

• A 35-year-old female presented with headache and diplopia.
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) revealed a large frontotemporal cystic lesion.
• Tumor resection was performed using a keyhole endoscopic frontal lateral approach.

Main Results:

• Pathological examination confirmed adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma with cholesterol granuloma.
• The resected mass was a lobulated frontotemporal cystic lesion.
• No tumor regrowth was evident on MRI 27 months post-surgery.

Conclusions:

• Primary ectopic craniopharyngioma is a rare entity with uncertain pathogenesis.
• This frontotemporal location is unusual and associated with distinct clinical features.
• Successful surgical management was achieved with long-term follow-up.