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Adult hydrocephalus and the empty sella
Acta Neurologica Scandinavica
|September 1, 1984
Summary
Pituitary apoplexy can mimic meningitis, leading to hydrocephalus and an empty sella. This suggests pituitary adenoma necrosis as a cause for both conditions.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neurology
- Neurosurgery
Background:
- Pituitary apoplexy is a rare but serious complication of pituitary adenomas.
- Symptoms can be non-specific, including headaches, visual disturbances, and hormonal deficiencies.
Observation:
- A 51-year-old male presented with pituitary apoplexy manifesting as meningitis-like symptoms.
- Subsequent investigations revealed hydrocephalus and an empty sella.
- The pituitary adenoma necrosis was hypothesized as the cause.
Findings:
- The concomitant presence of an empty sella and hydrocephalus is linked to pituitary adenoma necrosis.
- Necrosis of a pre-existing pituitary adenoma can lead to these findings.
Implications:
- This case highlights the importance of considering pituitary apoplexy in the differential diagnosis of meningitis.
- Understanding the link between pituitary adenoma necrosis, empty sella, and hydrocephalus can improve diagnostic accuracy.
- Further research into pituitary apoplexy pathogenesis is warranted.