Pancreatic cytology and adenosquamous carcinoma of the pancreas

Primary carcinoma of the pancreas exhibiting squamous differentiation is unusual. We present such a case which was diagnosed by percutaneous fine needle aspiration biopsy. A cytological diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma lead to the question: was the tumour primary or secondary? Subsequent post-mortem examination confirmed a primary carcinoma of the head of the pancreas with predominantly squamous differentiation and a small component of glandular differentiation. Cytologic diagnosis of squamous cell carcinoma should prompt a review of clinical and radiologic data. Evidence of a malignant glandular component should also be sought.