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  Empty Sella Syndrome 
  
Reviewed  07-01-2001  

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Table of Contents (click to jump to sections)

What is Empty Sella Syndrome ?
Is there any treatment?
What is the prognosis?
What research is being done?

Organizations

What is Empty Sella Syndrome ?
Empty sella syndrome is a rare congenital disorder that occurs when an empty space in the brain fills with cerebrospinal fluid as a result of a deformity in the brain. Individuals with the disorder may have unusual facial features. Other symptoms may include short stature, increased bone density, headaches, and vision problems. Empty sella syndrome may also be caused by other disorders or a problem caused by some medical intervention, such as surgery. The disorder is particularly common in middle-age, obese women. Empty sella syndrome may be confused with pituitary disorders.

Is there any treatment?
Unless the disorder results in other medical problems, treatment is symptomatic and supportive. In some cases, surgery may be needed.

What is the prognosis?
Empty sella syndrome is not life-threatening.

What research is being done?
The NINDS supports and conducts studies aimed at understanding neurological conditions such as empty sella syndrome. The goals of these studies are to find ways to prevent and treat these conditions.

Select this link to view a list of studies currently seeking patients.

 Organizations

National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD)
P.O. Box 1968
(55 Kenosia Avenue)
Danbury, CT 06813-1968
orphan@rarediseases.org
http://www.rarediseases.org
Tel: 203-744-0100 Voice Mail 800-999-NORD (6673)
Fax: 203-798-2291


NINDS health-related material is provided for information purposes only and does not necessarily represent endorsement by or an official position of the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke or any other Federal agency. Advice on the treatment or care of an individual patient should be obtained through consultation with a physician who has examined that patient or is familiar with that patient's medical history.

All NINDS-prepared information is in the public domain and may be freely copied. Credit to the NINDS or the NIH is appreciated.


Provided by:
The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke
National Institutes of Health
Bethesda, MD 20892




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