Superficial Siderosis Associated with Craniopharyngioma

Superficial siderosis (SS) associated with craniopharyngioma is an extremely rare occurrence. To our knowledge, only 3 cases have been reported in literature. Two of the cases occurred following resection of the tumor. Similar to the present case, 1 of the cases was discovered before surgical intervention, "pure tumor-related" SS. The clinical presentation, diagnosis, management, and outcome are discussed in this article.

A 50-year-old man presented with an 11-month history of left-sided tinnitus, hearing impairment, and a 2-month history of visual disturbance. Cerebellar ataxia and gait disturbance were found on examination. Brain magnetic resonance imaging findings were consistent with SS. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis before surgery revealed xanthochromia confirming an existing chronic sustainable subarachnoid hemorrhage. He underwent a tumor resection in endoscopic endonasal approach followed by stereotactic radiosurgery. On follow-up, the visual symptoms resulting from craniopharyngioma subsided, whereas hearing impairment, cerebellar ataxia, and gait disturbance associated with SS did not progress but were unchanged despite subsequent evidence of watery-clear CSF.

In the present case, SS could be associated with craniopharyngioma on the basis of CSF findings and clinical symptoms. Detection and early treatment aimed at eliminating the bleeding source offer the best chance of halting the disease process.