How common is empty sella syndrome (ESS)?

How common is empty sella syndrome (ESS)?

Empty sella syndrome (ESS) is rare. Some researchers have estimated that less than 1% of people with an empty sella develop symptoms (develop empty sella syndrome).

Having an empty sella without symptoms is much more common. Reports estimate that 8% to 35% of the population have an empty sella. Based on results from neuroimaging testing, other reports estimate that empty sella occurs in 12% of people.