[Primary empty sella syndrome (ESS). Clinical observations on 20 cases]

The authors report 20 cases of primary empty sella syndrome (ESS) observed during the last 5 years in their Department of Internal Medicine. Clinical data and particular syndromes are discussed and compared with data of partially reviewed literature. The authors discuss the classification of primary and secondary ESS with their possible endocrine, ophthalmological and neurological symptoms, or--on the contrary--without clinical signs as more frequently observed. The usual diagnostic and therapeutic procedures are also reported.