What is an empty sella turcica, and does it require treatment?
Jan 23, 2025
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Lv Zhiqin
Introduction
Under normal circumstances, empty sella refers to empty sella syndrome. Empty sella syndrome is an imaging finding that indicates herniation of the subarachnoid space into the sella turcica, causing compression and reduction in the size of the pituitary gland as well as enlargement of the sella turcica. Whether empty sella syndrome requires treatment depends on the patient's specific symptoms. If the patient has no obvious symptoms, treatment is generally not necessary.
Generally speaking, an empty sella refers to empty sella syndrome. Empty sella syndrome is a radiological finding characterized by herniation of the subarachnoid space into the sella turcica, leading to compression and reduction in size of the pituitary gland as well as enlargement of the sella. Whether empty sella syndrome requires treatment depends on the patient's specific symptoms. If the patient has no obvious symptoms, treatment usually is unnecessary; however, if significant symptoms are present, treatment is required. If discomfort occurs, timely medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:
1. What is Empty Sella Syndrome?
Empty sella syndrome refers to a syndrome characterized by herniation of the subarachnoid space into the sella turcica, causing enlargement of the sella and compression of pituitary tissue within the sella. The causes of empty sella syndrome may include injury following pituitary surgery or radiation therapy, increased intracranial pressure, head trauma, and congenital defects in the development of the diaphragma sellae. Patients may experience symptoms such as headache, visual disturbances, and endocrine dysfunction.
2. Does Empty Sella Syndrome Require Treatment?
For most patients with empty sella syndrome, especially those without symptoms or with mild symptoms, specific treatment may not be necessary. These patients typically only require regular radiological examinations and clinical observation to ensure the condition does not worsen.
If patients develop severe symptoms such as headache, visual impairment, or pituitary insufficiency that affect their quality of life, treatment under a physician's guidance may be necessary. Treatment options may include minimally invasive surgery via the nasal sphenoid sinus approach or implantation of artificial cerebrospinal fluid fillers to prevent further deterioration.
In daily life, patients should ensure sufficient sleep and avoid staying up late or excessive fatigue. Appropriate physical exercise should be performed to enhance immune function.
