As we known, adamantinomatous craniopharyngioma (ACP) is thought to
originate from residual Rathke’s pouch cells along the long axis from nasopharynx to
infundibulum [1, 2]. However, the squamous papillary subtype of CP (SPCP) is
believed to occur throught squamous metaplasia in the pars tuberalis [2, 3]. In
consideration of these inferences, the neural parenchymal layer of third ventricular
floor (3rd VF) should locate above the CP, separate both the tumor and third ventricular
chamber. However, the first study conducted by Dubos et al. in 1953 extensively
reported the tumors completely located inside the third ventricle cavity by autopsy or
intraoperative finding [4-13]. Because of this topographical location, the theory of CP
origin has been challenged and much more neurosurgeons are interested in pursuing the
true morphological characteristics and diagnostic criteria of these tumors [9, 14]. In this
chapter, we firstly reviewed the definition of the intraventricular CP in several
publications. Then based on our histological and clinical study, the true morphology of
intraventricular CP was proposed. The related approach selection and surgical skills
was also depicted.
Keywords: Craniopharyngioma, Intraventricular, Third ventricular floor.
