Empty Sella Syndrome: A Case Report and Literature Review

Abstract

An empty sella occurs due to herniation of the arachnoid through an incompetent diaphragma sellae. Over time, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) pulsations may enlarge the sella and compress the gland against the floor of the sella. Empty sella syndrome is considered as a less common entity and is usually asymptomatic and an incidental finding. However, it can be a manifestation of increased intracranial pressure and can be occasionally severe. Compression of the pituitary gland may affect function, or traction on the optic chiasm and nerves may cause visual symptoms. An empty sella may be classified as primary when this occurs in persons who have not received pituitary radiation or pituitary surgery, while an empty sella discovered following such procedures is classified as secondary empty sella. In this report, we presented a 41-year-old multiparous patient who presented to us with symptoms of headache and left sided hemi-sensory disturbance. Examination was unrevealing except for the fact that she was obese. On evaluation, she was detected to have impaired blood sugars, dyslipidemia and vitamin insufficiency. MRI brain revealed presence of Empty Sella. Further hormonal analysis was normal. She was treated conservatively and regular follow-up was advised.