What does empty sella mean?
May 23, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Jun
Introduction
Empty sella refers to a significantly enlarged space within the sella turcica, accompanied by a reduced pituitary gland volume. It is a type of lesion in the sellar region, with specific analysis as follows: Normally, the sella turcica contains and is fully occupied by the pituitary gland. However, if a patient has abnormal local brain tissue development leading to an enlarged central opening, the intracranial pressure can cause gradual expansion of the cavity within the sella turcica, resulting in abnormal compression of the pituitary gland.
Empty sella refers to a significantly enlarged space within the sella turcica accompanied by a reduced pituitary gland volume. It is a type of lesion in the sellar region, with specific analysis as follows:
Normally, the pituitary gland fills the sella turcica completely in healthy individuals. However, if a patient has abnormal local brain development resulting in an enlarged opening in the central region, the intracranial pressure can cause gradual expansion of the cavity within the sella turcica. This expansion may abnormally compress the pituitary gland, leading to empty sella. Alternatively, local infections or inflammatory lesions may cause cerebral soft tissue edema and congestion, increasing intracranial pressure. This elevated pressure may allow herniation of the arachnoid membrane into the sella turcica, resulting in this condition. Common symptoms include headache, visual field defects, and acromegaly. Patients are advised to visit a hospital for imaging examinations to determine the exact underlying cause of empty sella and receive appropriate treatment accordingly.
In daily life, it is recommended to develop good sleep habits, avoid heavy physical labor, maintain emotional stability, follow a light diet, reduce intake of high-fat and high-salt foods, and schedule regular hospital follow-up visits.
