[2] It can be discovered as part of the diagnostic workup of pituitary disorders, or as an incidental finding when imaging the brain.

[1] If there are symptoms, people with empty sella syndrome can have headaches and vision loss.

[3][4] Additional symptoms are as follows:[citation needed] The cause of this condition is divided into primary and secondary, as follows: The normal mechanism of the pituitary gland sees that it controls the hormonal system, which therefore has an effect on growth, sexual development, and adrenocortical function.

The major differential to consider in empty sella syndrome is intracranial hypertension, of both unknown and secondary causes, and an epidermoid cyst, which can mimic cerebrospinal fluid due to its low density on CT scans, although MRI can usually distinguish the latter diagnosis.

[10] In terms of management, unless the syndrome results in other medical problems, treatment for endocrine dysfunction associated with pituitary malfunction is symptomatic and thus supportive; however, surgery may be needed in some cases.