Empty Sella Syndrome

Empty sella syndrome is where there is an enlarged sella turcica that is due by partially or completely filled cerebrospinal fluid (csf).  Empty sella syndrome can sometimes be seen on a plain xray, but is more often seen on mri.  In most cases an empty sella is due because of an endocrine abnormality followed by an abnormality am craniofacial areas.  There is no reason why, but empty sella syndrome appears to occur in more women than men.  Complaints of headaches are the most common sign followed by dizziness, equilibrium problems, and seizures.  For most cases, surgery is not needed.  However, in the most severe will require surgery. 


Agarwal, J.K. (2001).  Empty Sella Syndrome.  Journal Indian Academy of Clinical MedicineVol. 2,    No.3 July-September 2001 198-201. Retrieved 09/30/2010 from medind.nic.in/jac

Fig. 2. T₁ weighted MRI brain in midsagittal section shows small pituitary gland which is compressed from below by CSF inside the sella turcica.

image found at http://indianpediatrics.net/jan2000/images1.htm