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Primary empty sella (PES): a review of 175 cases
M Guitelman1, Natalia Garcia Basavilbaso, M Vitale
1Departamento de Neuroendocrinología, Sociedad Argentina de Endocrinología y Metabolismo, Díaz Vélez 3889, C1200AAF Ciudad Autónoma de Bs As, Argentina. mguitelman@speedy.com.ar
Pituitary
|August 10, 2012
Summary
Primary empty sella (PES) is common in middle-aged women, often linked to multiple pregnancies. Hypopituitarism is more prevalent in men diagnosed with PES.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Radiology
- Neuroscience
Background:
- Primary empty sella (PES) involves subarachnoid space herniation into the sella turcica without prior pituitary issues.
- PES is often diagnosed incidentally or during investigations for other conditions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To retrospectively analyze clinical features, radiological findings, and endocrine function in 175 patients with PES.
- To identify demographic and clinical associations with PES.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective review of 175 patient records diagnosed with PES.
- Assessment of clinical history, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) findings, and basal pituitary hormone levels.
Main Results:
- PES predominantly affects middle-aged women (mean age 48.2 years).
- Commonly associated factors include multiple pregnancies (58.3%), headaches (59.4%), obesity (49.5%), and hypertension (27.3%).
- Hypopituitarism occurred in 28% of patients, significantly higher in males (64%) than females (22%).
Conclusions:
- PES is more frequently diagnosed in middle-aged women, often with a history of multiple pregnancies.
- While often incidental, PES can be a cause of anterior pituitary deficiency, particularly in men.
