A syndrome characterized by flattening or regression of the pituitary gland within the sella turcica cavity, resulting in an MRI image of an empty sella turcica. This radiological finding may be associated with normal pituitary function. Less commonly, pituitary surgery or abnormal formation of the pituitary gland may lead to pituitary hypofunction.
Empty sella syndrome
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Synopsis
Codes
ICD10CM:
E23.6 – Other disorders of pituitary gland
SNOMEDCT:
237722004 – Empty Sella Syndrome
E23.6 – Other disorders of pituitary gland
SNOMEDCT:
237722004 – Empty Sella Syndrome
Differential Diagnosis & Pitfalls
This is a radiological finding rather than a medical condition. There is no evidence that patients with the radiological finding consistently have pituitary hormone abnormalities.
- Sheehan syndrome
- Consequence of radiation therapy or surgery to remove or shrink the pituitary
- History of pituitary infraction
- Congenital abnormality of a transcription factor necessary for pituitary differentiation, such as PROP-1
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Last Updated:08/04/2016
Empty sella syndrome