This site is intended for healthcare professionals

Go to /sign-in page

You can view 5 more pages before signing in

Empty sella syndrome

Last reviewed dd mmm yyyy. Last edited dd mmm yyyy

Authoring team

In this condition, the subarachnoid space is extended into the sella tursica through a partial defect in the diaphragma sellae. An enlarged sella is seen on skull x-ray, and a low density CSF filled cavity occupying most the sella is seen on CT. The remaining space contains pituitary gland, tumour or both.

The condition is thought to arise from a change in CSF circulation with subsequent cisternal herniation. There is progressive compression of the pituitary parenchyma and reduction in portal vessel perfusion.

It is usually found in obese, often hypertensive, females. Presenting symptoms tend to non-specific - frequent headache and transient visual problems. Endocrine disturbance is unusual but when present, includes amenorrhoea in one - third of cases, usually due to hypogonadotropism. However, many patients enjoy normal pituitary function.

There is a risk that aneurysms may develop within the dilated sella which should be examined for by angiography.

Pituitary replacement therapy is required. Occasionally, it may be necessary to decompress the chiasm surgically.


Related pages

Create an account to add page annotations

Annotations allow you to add information to this page that would be handy to have on hand during a consultation. E.g. a website or number. This information will always show when you visit this page.