Is an empty sella a tumor?

Nov 05, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Yang Ziqi

Introduction

In most cases, non-tumorous conditions arise from congenital abnormalities in the development of the sella turcica or acquired pituitary atrophy and changes in cerebrospinal fluid pressure, leading to the sella turcica being filled with cerebrospinal fluid and forming a cystic cavity. Such empty sella syndrome contains no tumor cells and patients may be asymptomatic, with the condition discovered incidentally during routine examination. No specific treatment is required; regular follow-up is sufficient.

　　In most cases, empty sella is not caused by a tumor; however, it may be associated with tumors if induced by tumor compression or invasion. If there are concerns, early medical consultation is recommended. Detailed analysis is as follows:

　　Most non-tumorous cases arise from congenital abnormalities in the development of the sella turcica, or from acquired pituitary atrophy and changes in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pressure, leading to CSF filling the sella and forming an empty appearance. These types of empty sella do not involve tumor cells. Patients may remain asymptomatic and the condition is often discovered incidentally during routine examinations. No specific treatment is required—regular follow-up monitoring is sufficient.

　　In rare cases related to tumors, the empty sella phenomenon may result from tumors such as pituitary adenomas or craniopharyngiomas compressing pituitary tissue, or from reduced pituitary volume following tumor treatment, creating an empty space within the sella. Alternatively, direct tumor invasion into the sellar region may alter the sella's structure and lead to cavity formation. In such instances, management should be integrated with the overall tumor treatment plan to prevent disease progression.

　　After detecting an empty sella, further evaluation is necessary to determine the underlying cause. Regular monitoring of the sella and pituitary function is essential. Prompt medical attention should be sought if symptoms such as headaches or visual deterioration occur, and subsequent interventions should follow professional medical advice.

Related Articles

View All

Is a blood vessel tumor under the tongue serious?

In general, the severity of a hemangioma under the tongue needs to be determined based on specific circumstances. Hemangiomas that are small, cause no discomfort, and do not affect eating or speaking are usually not serious. However, larger hemangiomas that cause discomfort or impair function may be more serious. In daily care, it is important to avoid consuming food that is too hot or too hard, and to minimize friction and irritation to the affected area.

View Full Answer

Is the decision to perform surgery for splenic hemangioma based on its location?

Surgical intervention may be necessary in cases where the hemangioma is located in a special position, such as near the splenic hilum, areas with dense vasculature, or adjacent to surrounding organs, as these are prone to external forces, enlargement, compression of surrounding tissues or blood vessels, leading to abdominal pain, bloating, and even risk of rupture and hemorrhage. Even if the hemangioma is in a relatively favorable location, a large tumor volume may impair splenic function due to mass effect, and such cases should also be considered for surgical treatment.

View Full Answer

Can a vascular tumor inside the lower leg cause breast infection?

The lower leg and the breast are different anatomical regions. Hemangiomas are essentially abnormal proliferations of blood vessels, not infectious conditions, and therefore do not directly cause bacterial or viral spread to the breast leading to infection. Most hemangiomas within the lower leg grow slowly and remain stable; when they do not rupture or become infected, they have no direct impact on the whole body or the breast. Breast infections are mostly related to local factors such as poor hygiene or blockage of mammary ducts.

View Full Answer

Must hemangiomas have abundant blood flow signals?

Rich blood flow signals are a typical feature of most vascular tumors, especially common types such as infantile hemangiomas and cavernous hemangiomas. These vascular tumors consist of numerous abnormally proliferating blood vessels, forming a dense vascular network with active blood supply. On ultrasound examination, they show明显血流信号 (prominent blood flow signals), which is one of the important imaging criteria for diagnosing vascular tumors and reflects the lesion's level of activity.

View Full Answer

Will strawberry hemangiomas regress?

In general, strawberry hemangiomas, which are common benign vascular tumors in infants and young children, may or may not regress depending on the severity of the condition, tumor location, and growth rate. Close observation of changes in the hemangioma is necessary in daily care, including monitoring and recording changes in color, size, and thickness. Avoid friction or trauma to the lesion, and maintain local skin cleanliness and dryness.

View Full Answer

Are hemangiomas scary?

In most cases, there is no need for excessive concern. Common benign vascular tumors in infants and young children, such as superficial infantile hemangiomas and cherry angiomas, do not invade surrounding tissues or undergo malignant transformation. These types of vascular tumors either regress spontaneously or can be completely cured with proper treatment, having minimal impact on health. They may only affect appearance when located in visible areas, but do not pose a threat to life.

View Full Answer

Is lymphatic hemangioma serious?

In general, lymphangioma is a benign tumor, and its severity needs to be assessed based on specific circumstances. Avoid pressing or bumping the affected area in daily life to prevent rupture, bleeding, or infection of the lesion. Regularly monitor changes in the size, shape of the lesion, and any accompanying symptoms, and keep proper records. If you notice sudden enlargement of the lesion, pain, redness, or swelling, seek medical attention promptly.

View Full Answer

Which department should I visit for hemangioma?

Departments that typically treat vascular tumors include dermatology, vascular surgery, interventional radiology, pediatrics, and general surgery. Dermatology is suitable for superficial types of vascular tumors, such as infantile hemangiomas or cherry angiomas on the skin surface. Dermatologists can make a definitive diagnosis through visual examination and dermoscopy, and provide targeted treatments such as laser therapy and topical medications.

View Full Answer

Your trusted source for health information and wellness guidance.

Quick Links

Resources

Connect

© 2024 HealthPortal. All rights reserved.