International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI)
Primary Empty Sella Syndrome Presenting with CSF Rhinorrhea: Successful Endoscopic Repair
Published September 17, 2025 • Vol. 12, Issue 8, pp. 1860–1862Open Access
DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120800169
Abstract
Primary empty sella syndrome (ESS) is characterized by herniation of the subarachnoid space into the sella turcica with pituitary flattening. While usually asymptomatic, primary ESS can rarely present with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) rhinorrhea.
We report the case of a 67-year-old man with a 3-month history of headache and left-sided clear nasal discharge. Neurological and ophthalmological examinations were normal. Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) revealed an empty sella. Endocrinological tests were within normal limits. An endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal repair was performed using autologous fat grafting, resulting in complete resolution of symptoms. CSF leaks in ESS are often attributed to elevated intracranial pressure and diaphragmatic incompetence, leading to sellar floor erosion. Endoscopic repair offers a minimally invasive approach with high success rates and low morbidity.
In cases of ESS complicated by CSF rhinorrhea, surgical repair is mandatory. The endoscopic transnasal transsphenoidal approach remains the preferred treatment option.
Keywords: Empty sella syndrome, cerebrospinal fluid rhinorrhea, endoscopic repair, transnasal transsphenoidal surgery, case-report
| Journal | International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI) |
|---|---|
| ISSN | 2321-2705 |
| Volume / Issue | Volume 12, Issue 8 |
| Pages | 1860–1862 |
| Publication date | September 17, 2025 |
| DOI | 10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120800169 |
| Publisher | RSIS International |
| License | Open Access |
How to cite this article
Sameh Achoura, Hajer Kammoun, Siwar Farhat, Kais Bouzouita, Khaled Radhouane, & Ridha Chkili (2025). Primary Empty Sella Syndrome Presenting with CSF Rhinorrhea: Successful Endoscopic Repair. International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI), 12(8), 1860-1862. https://doi.org/10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120800169
BibTeX
@article{Sameh2025,
title = {Primary Empty Sella Syndrome Presenting with CSF Rhinorrhea: Successful Endoscopic Repair},
author = {Sameh Achoura and Hajer Kammoun and Siwar Farhat and Kais Bouzouita and Khaled Radhouane and Ridha Chkili},
journal = {International Journal of Research and Scientific Innovation (IJRSI)},
volume = {12},
number = {8},
pages = {1860--1862},
year = {2025},
doi = {10.51244/IJRSI.2025.120800169},
publisher = {RSIS International}
}