Acantholytic Squamous Cell Carcinoma: a Diagnostic Pitfall on Cytology

Acantholytic squamous cell carcinoma is an infrequent subtype of squamous cell carcinoma. This tumour variant being rare in itself has been rarely described at the penile location, thus leading to a limitation on information of pathological and immunohistochemical findings and prognosis. Clinical observations indicate an aggressive biologic behaviour. The cytological features on fine-needle aspiration cytology samples have rarely been described in literature. It is imperative for pathologists to be aware of the cytological features so as to allow the distinction of this variant from conventional squamous carcinoma. Here, we explore an intriguing case of a metastatic tumour to inguinal lymph node with the primary lesion at the penis which constituted a diagnostic challenge on cytological examination.