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Coexistent empty sella and prolactin-secreting microadenoma
Obstetrics and Gynecology
|February 1, 1979
Summary
Empty sella turcica can occur with or without pituitary issues. This study found pituitary microadenomas in women with empty sella, galactorrhea, and hyperprolactinemia, successfully treated with surgery.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurosurgery
- Radiology
Background:
- Empty sella turcica is a condition where the pituitary gland appears shrunken or empty within the sella turcica.
- It can be primary (idiopathic) or secondary to pituitary pathology or treatment.
- Galactorrhea and hyperprolactinemia are conditions characterized by abnormal milk production and elevated prolactin levels, respectively.
Observation:
- Three women presented with galactorrhea, hyperprolactinemia, and amenorrhea, all diagnosed with empty sella turcica.
- Radiological imaging, including polytomography and pneumoencephalography, revealed sellar floor asymmetry, bony erosion, and intrasellar air, suggesting a pituitary microadenoma.
Findings:
- Pituitary function was normal in two patients, except for hyperprolactinemia.
- Transsphenoidal excision of the identified microadenomas led to normalization of serum prolactin levels.
- Amenorrheic patients resumed regular menses post-surgery.
Implications:
- Empty sella turcica in patients with hyperprolactinemia may indicate an underlying pituitary microadenoma.
- Surgical removal of microadenomas is an effective treatment for hyperprolactinemia and associated symptoms like amenorrhea.
- This highlights the importance of thorough endocrine and radiological evaluation in cases of empty sella turcica.