This condition is called the “empty sella syndrome.”
It is not a life-threatening condition and there are no typical signs or symptoms of ESS.
This article discusses the types of ESS, potential symptoms, causes, and treatment.
Andrew Brookes/Cultura/Getty Images
The underlying condition that is causing the empty sella may itself produce symptoms.
In addition, the loss of some or all pituitary function is often seen with secondary empty sella.
Primary Empty Sella Syndrome
Primary ESS means that no specific underlying cause is identifiable.
Consequently, most people with primary empty sella syndrome have no associated symptoms.
Primary ESS is most often diagnosed in middle-aged women who are overweight or obese and have hypertension.
The reason why empty sella syndrome looks like it’s more common in these people is unknown.
If these are normal, generally no further evaluation is needed.
For people with secondary empty sella syndrome, symptoms lead to a medical workup looking for hormonal abnormalities.
How Is Empty Sella Syndrome Treated?
In people with secondary ESS, treatment usually consists of replacing the deficient hormones.
However, depending on the underlying cause, surgical treatment may be needed.
Most people have no symptoms and need no treatment.
Once the correct diagnosis is made, these hormone deficiencies are treatable.
2018;115(7):99105. doi:10.3238/arztebl.2018.0099
Endocrine Society.Hyperprolactinemia.
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke.Empty sella syndrome.
National Organization for Rare Disorders.Empty sella syndrome.
Johns Hopkins Medicine.Empty sella syndrome.
