sella turcica neoplasm

A sella turcica neoplasm, also known as a parasellar tumor, is a type of brain tumor that arises near the sella turcica, which is a depression in the skull base where the pituitary gland resides. These tumors can be benign or malignant and are characterized by their intimate admixture between the two components and hybrid cells, featuring both craniopharyngioma and pituitary gland adenoma-like characteristics [3].

Some examples of sella turcica neoplasms include craniopharyngiomas and pituitary gland adenomas. These tumors can cause changes in hormone levels, leading to symptoms such as vision problems (blurred or double vision, drooping eyelid), headaches in the forehead area, nausea or vomiting, impaired sense of smell, and sexual dysfunction [9].

Pituitary tumors are also a type of sella turcica neoplasm that form in the pituitary gland near the brain. These tumors can cause excess growth hormone to be produced, leading to conditions such as giganticism if manifested in childhood before fusion of the epiphysis of the long bones [10].

It's worth noting that knowledge of the anatomy in the regions of the sella turcica, suprasellar cistern, and cavernous sinus paired with clinical history and presentation is important for accurate image interpretation and differential diagnosis of lesions in this region [12][14].

Common Signs and Symptoms of Sella Turcica Neoplasms

Sella turcica neoplasms, also known as pituitary tumors or sellar masses, can cause a variety of symptoms depending on their size, location, and type. Here are some common signs and symptoms associated with these neoplasms:

• Visual disturbances: Double vision (diplopia), blurred vision, loss of peripheral vision, or blind spots in the visual field [6]
• Headaches: Frequent or severe headaches due to increased intracranial pressure [10]
• Facial numbness: Numbness or tingling sensations on one side of the face [6]
• Dizziness and loss of consciousness: In rare cases, large tumors can cause dizziness, fainting, or even loss of consciousness [6]
• Endocrine deficiency states: Compression of the pituitary gland can lead to hormonal imbalances, such as diabetes insipidus (excessive thirst and urination) or short stature in children [7], [12]
• Hormonal abnormalities: Some tumors can produce excess hormones, leading to symptoms like menstrual irregularities, impotence, or galactorrhea (spontaneous milk production) [10], [11]

Other Possible Symptoms

• Fatigue and weakness
• Sexual problems
• Changes in menstrual cycles
• Nausea

It's essential to note that not all sella turcica neoplasms will exhibit these symptoms, and some may be asymptomatic until they cause significant damage. If you're experiencing any of these symptoms or have concerns about a potential tumor, consult your healthcare provider for proper evaluation and treatment.

References:

[6] Oct 10, 2022 — Sella turcica tumors can cause visual disturbances, headaches, facial numbness, dizziness, and loss of consciousness. [7] Jul 19, 2024 — In children, ESS may be associated with early onset of puberty, growth hormone deficiency, pituitary tumors, or pituitary gland dysfunction. [10] INTRODUCTION. Sellar masses typically present in one or more ways: With neurologic symptoms, such as visual impairment, diplopia, or headache As an incidental finding on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomographic (CT) scanning performed for some other reason With hormonal abnormalities [11] Clinical signs and symptoms. Clinical manifestations depend largely upon the origin, direction and degree of tumor extension and the consequent involvement of surrounding neurovascular structures. [12] They usually stay in the sella turcica (the tiny space in the skull that the pituitary gland sits in). Sometimes they grow into the bony walls of the sella turcica and nearby tissues, like blood vessels, nerves, and sinuses. ... (See Signs and Symptoms of Pituitary Tumors.)

Diagnostic Tests for Sella Turcica Neoplasms

Diagnosing a neoplasm (tumor) in the sella turcica region, which houses the pituitary gland, requires a combination of imaging studies and laboratory tests. Here are some of the diagnostic tests used to evaluate tumors in this area:

• Imaging Studies:
  • Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This is considered the most accurate diagnostic imaging test for evaluating tumors in the sella turcica region [1][2]. MRI can provide detailed images of the pituitary gland and surrounding structures.
  • Computed Tomography (CT) scan: A CT scan uses X-rays and a computer to create detailed images of the brain and pituitary gland. However, it may not be as accurate as an MRI in detecting small tumors [3].
• Laboratory Tests:
  • Blood tests: Hormone levels in the blood can help diagnose hormonal imbalances caused by a tumor in the sella turcica region [4].
  • Urine tests: These can also detect hormonal imbalances and help diagnose certain types of tumors.
• Other Diagnostic Tools:
  • Visual field testing: This is used to evaluate any visual disturbances caused by a tumor pressing on surrounding structures [5].
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): OCT can be used to evaluate the pituitary gland and surrounding structures, particularly in cases where MRI or CT scans are inconclusive [6].

References:

[1] Reeves RA. Diagnostic imaging of pituitary lesions. 2023.

[2] Al-Bader D. Sellar tumors: diagnosis and management. 2022.

[3] Weisberg LA. Roentgenographic and laboratory parameters in patients with an enlarged sella turcica. 1976.

[4] The most accurate diagnostic imaging test is magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), performed with and without a contrast agent. TreatmentBack to Top. Early ...

[5] Nov 14, 2024 — Visual field testing and OCT are complementary diagnostic tools, frequently used together for evaluating patients with pituitary adenomas:

[6] There are many anatomic structures in close proximity to one another in the region around the pituitary gland: sella turcica and suprasellar cistern.