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The pituitary fossa: a correlative anatomic and MR study
Radiology
|November 1, 1984
Summary
This study details the normal appearance of the pituitary fossa using magnetic resonance (MR) imaging. Findings reveal a fat pad contributes to the high signal intensity in the posterior-inferior region of the pituitary fossa.
Area of Science:
- Radiology
- Neuroimaging
- Anatomy
Background:
- The pituitary fossa's normal appearance on magnetic resonance (MR) imaging is crucial for diagnosing abnormalities.
- Partial saturation sequences provide detailed anatomical information.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the normal appearance of the pituitary fossa in partial saturation MR images.
- To correlate MR findings with anatomical structures.
Main Methods:
- Sagittal magnetic resonance (MR) images of the pituitary fossa in normal subjects were analyzed.
- MR images were correlated with sagittal cryomicrotomic images from cadavers.
- MR imaging and cryosectioning were performed on normal subhuman primates.
Main Results:
- The pituitary fossa appeared inhomogeneous in sagittal MR images.
- A fat pad was identified as the source of high signal intensity in the posterior-inferior pituitary fossa.
- The height of the pituitary gland was typically less than 8 mm, with a flat or concave upper surface.
Conclusions:
- Partial saturation MR imaging effectively visualizes the normal pituitary fossa.
- A fat pad is a normal anatomical structure within the posterior-inferior pituitary fossa.
- MR imaging characteristics provide a baseline for identifying pituitary fossa pathologies.