Global improvement in intellectual and neuropsychological functioning after removal of a suprasellar cystic craniopharyngioma

This is a case report of a patient who presented with cognitive and behavio ral decline and underwent surgery for removal of a suprasellar craniopharyn gioma, Previous studies have reported memory impairments in the presence of craniopharyngioma, but information is lacking regarding the impact of cran iopharyngioma on other brain functions as well as on intellectual abilities . In this study, comprehensive neuropsychological testing, including intell ectual testing, was conducted 9 to 14 days before surgery and 16 to 22 days after surgery. Results before surgery demonstrated average intellectual ab ilities, which were decreased from premorbid estimates, and diffuse neurops ychological impairments. Postoperatively, significant improvement in both i ntellectual abilities and neuropsychological test scores was observed. Thes e results suggest that craniopharyngiomas can be associated with impairment s in intellectual abilities and in brain functions aside from memory. The r esults are contrasted with those of previous reports, and implications for future research are discussed.