Endocrine Abstracts

Primary empty sella (PES) is a frequent radiological entity in general population. The herniation of sub arachnoid space in the sella turcica can induce various visual and/or endocrine disorders. In this work we want to study first symptoms leading to diagnosis, clinical and paraclinical aspects of 36 adults with PES. Diagnosis of PES is made by TDM and/or IRM after exclusion of secondary empty sella. In this study empty sella is considered as complete in 51.5% cases and partial in 48.5%. Analyzed factors are: age, sex, BMI, clinical history, visual exam and pituitary exploration.

Results: Diagnosis of PES is made after endocrine disorders in 61%, headache and/or dizziness in 22%, visual disturbances in 11% and rhinorrhea in 2.8%. Our population is composed by 28 females and 8 males with a sex ratio =3.5. Their mean age =41±9 years. BMI of our group is ≥25 Kg/m² in 61% Systemic hypertension is objectived in 1/3 of our population, a history of autoimmun disease is found in 22% a benign intra cranial hypertension is noted in one subject =2.8%. 25% of female cases have 7 or more pregnancies. Clinical and paraclinical explorations are as follow: headaches =66%, meningitis =2.8% and visual abnormalities =21%. Pituitary disorders are: hyperprolactinemia =16% and pituitary deficits =46%. Post hypophyse is preserved.

Conclusion: Primary empty sella is more frequent in mild age women. Endocrine and/or ophtalmological disorders are the first symptoms leading to diagnosis. Subjects with PES have an overweight in 61%. 1/3 of our group have a systemic hypertension and 22% have a history of autoimmun disease. Visual deficits are objectived in 21% and hypopituitarism in 46%. Rhinorrhea with meningitis is observed in 2.8%.