How is empty sella syndrome (ESS) diagnosed?

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How is empty sella syndrome (ESS) diagnosed?

In many cases, healthcare providers discover empty sella by chance (incidentally) when a person is undergoing head or brain imaging tests for another reason. And in most cases, people who have an empty sella don’t have or develop empty sella syndrome.

If you’re experiencing symptoms related to empty sella syndrome, such as frequent headaches and hormone imbalances, your provider will ask you about your medical history, perform a physical exam and will likely order an imaging procedure of your head and brain.

Imaging procedures that providers use to diagnose ESS include:

  • A brain CT (computed tomography) scan: A brain CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of your brain and pituitary gland.
  • A brain MRI (magnetic resonance imaging): MRI scans use radio waves and strong magnets to create detailed images of particular organs, tissues and structures inside your body, such as the sella turcica.

Your provider may order additional tests, such as blood tests, to check your hormone levels.

Sometimes, providers may perform tests to check for elevated pressure in your brain, including:

  • Examination of your retina (the layer of tissue at the back of your eye) by an ophthalmologist.
  • Lumbar puncture (spinal tap).

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