The finding of a partially empty sella (also known as empty sella syndrome) on an MRI does not always require further investigation or treatment. An empty sella refers to a sella turcica, a bony structure in the skull where the pituitary gland is housed, that appears partially or completely filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and flattened or compressed pituitary tissue.
In most cases, a partially empty sella is an incidental and benign finding. It is more commonly seen in middle-aged or older adults, but it can also be present in younger individuals. It is often discovered during imaging studies done for unrelated medical reasons.
While it is usually not a cause for concern, further evaluation and investigation may be warranted if the partially empty sella is associated with specific symptoms or findings, such as:
Hormonal abnormalities: If there are signs or symptoms of hormonal imbalances, such as growth hormone deficiency, thyroid hormone abnormalities, or abnormalities in other pituitary hormones, additional hormonal testing and evaluation may be necessary.
Vision problems: If there are visual disturbances or changes in vision, an ophthalmologic examination may be required to assess the optic nerves and visual fields.
Severe headaches: If the individual experiences severe or unusual headaches, further investigation might be necessary to rule out any other underlying conditions.
Neurological symptoms: If there are neurological symptoms beyond those typically associated with the empty sella, additional neurological evaluation may be needed.
In most cases, however, an incidental finding of a partially empty sella without any related symptoms or hormonal abnormalities does not require specific treatment or further investigation. It is essential to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a neurologist or endocrinologist, who can review the MRI results and consider the clinical context to determine if any further investigation or treatment is necessary.