Short answer · Medically reviewed summary · Last updated: 2026-05-08
Empty Sella Syndrome is not a contagious disease and cannot be transmitted through touch, air, or any form of social contact. It is a structural anatomical finding rather than an infectious condition, meaning there is zero risk to family, friends, or caregivers when interacting with someone diagnosed with Empty Sella Syndrome. What causes Empty Sella Syndrome? Empty Sella Syndrome occurs when the sella turcica—a bony structure at the base of the skull that protects the pituitary gland—appears "empty" on imaging scans.
1 people with Empty Sella Syndrome have shared their first-person experience on this question at DiseaseMaps.
Is Empty Sella Syndrome contagious?
Is Empty Sella Syndrome contagious? Clear, medically reviewed answer on transmission, with sources.
Empty Sella Syndrome is not a contagious disease and cannot be transmitted through touch, air, or any form of social contact. It is a structural anatomical finding rather than an infectious condition, meaning there is zero risk to family, friends, or caregivers when interacting with someone diagnosed with Empty Sella Syndrome.
What causes Empty Sella Syndrome?
Empty Sella Syndrome occurs when the sella turcica—a bony structure at the base of the skull that protects the pituitary gland—appears "empty" on imaging scans. This happens when the space becomes filled with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF), which pushes the pituitary gland against the bony walls, making it appear flattened or absent on an MRI. It is categorized into two types: primary, where the cause is often idiopathic (unknown) or related to increased intracranial pressure, and secondary, which results from trauma, surgery, or radiation therapy affecting the pituitary region.
Why is there confusion about contagion?
Because Empty Sella Syndrome involves neurological symptoms such as severe headaches, vision changes, or hormonal imbalances, people may mistakenly associate it with transmissible conditions like meningitis or encephalitis. However, Empty Sella Syndrome is strictly a non-communicable, structural, and physiological condition. There are no environmental triggers that cause an infection, and it does not spread through pathogens.
Is Empty Sella Syndrome hereditary?
While most cases of Empty Sella Syndrome are sporadic, researchers are investigating whether connective tissue disorders may play a role. It is not considered an inherited genetic disease, though structural predispositions may exist. Key factors include:
- Increased intracranial pressure (often seen in idiopathic intracranial hypertension).
- Structural variations in the diaphragma sellae (the membrane covering the sella).
- History of pituitary tumors or surgery.
- Obesity, which is statistically associated with higher rates of idiopathic intracranial hypertension.
Next steps
- Consult an endocrinologist to monitor pituitary hormone levels.
- Work with a neurologist or neuro-ophthalmologist to manage headaches and vision-related symptoms.
- Connect with the 15 members of the Empty Sella Syndrome community on DiseaseMaps.org to share experiences and reduce feelings of isolation.
Medical disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment; always seek the advice of your physician regarding a medical condition.
References
- NIH Genetic and Rare Diseases Information Center (GARD): Empty Sella Syndrome.
- Orphanet: Primary Empty Sella Syndrome.
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS): Empty Sella Syndrome.
- PubMed/NCBI: Clinical reviews on the pathophysiology of Empty Sella Syndrome.
Posted Oct 7, 2017 by Sharon 7050
