Symptoms & Signs
Often, there are no symptoms or loss of pituitary function.
Patients with empty sella syndrome may have symptoms caused by a partial or complete loss of pituitary gland function. For more information, see hypopituitarism.
Symptoms include:
- Erectile dysfunction (impotence)
- Headaches
- Irregular or absent menstruation
- Low sexual desire (low libido)
- Nipple discharge
Diagnosis & Tests
Primary empty sella syndrome is most often discovered during radiological imaging of the brain. Pituitary function is usually normal.
The health care provider may test pituitary gland function to make sure that the gland is working normally.
Sometimes tests for high pressure in the brain will be done, such as:
- Examination of the retina by an ophthalmologist
- Lumbar puncture (spinal tap)
The hormone prolactin is a little high in a small percentage of patients, which may interfere with the normal function of the testicles or ovaries.
-
Empty sella syndrome : Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
-
Empty sella syndrome : Symptoms & Signs, Diagnosis & Tests
-
Empty sella syndrome : Treatment
Review Date : 11/23/2009
Reviewed By : Ari S. Eckman, MD, Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed medical professional should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only — they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. © 1997- 2010 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.
