VB
Vikas Bhardwaj
Medical Technologist, AIIMS New Delhi
Updated: Apr 17, 2026
**Core Concept**
The empty sella turcica is a condition characterized by the herniation of the pituitary gland into the sella turcica, resulting in a depression of the sella turcica on radiographic imaging. This condition is often associated with hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction, which can lead to various endocrine disorders.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The patient's presentation of amenorrhea, failure of lactation following delivery, and radiographic evidence of an empty sella turcica are highly suggestive of Sheehan syndrome, a rare condition characterized by postpartum pituitary necrosis due to hypovolemic shock. This condition leads to a deficiency in anterior pituitary hormones, including thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), luteinizing hormone (LH), growth hormone (GH), and adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH), resulting in symptoms such as amenorrhea, infertility, and failure of lactation.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This option is not provided, but it's likely a distractor.
**Option B:** This option is not relevant to the patient's presentation and radiographic findings.
**Option C:** This option is not correct, as the patient's symptoms and radiographic evidence are more consistent with Sheehan syndrome than with a pituitary adenoma.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Sheehan syndrome is a rare but important diagnosis to consider in postpartum women presenting with amenorrhea and failure of lactation, as it can be life-threatening if left untreated. Early recognition and treatment of Sheehan syndrome are crucial to prevent long-term complications.
**Correct Answer:** C.