Imaging of the pituitary and parasellar region

Semin Neurol. 2012 Sep;32(4):320-31. doi: 10.1055/s-0032-1331806. Epub 2013 Jan 29.

Abstract

The sellar and parasellar region is anatomically complex and encompasses many important vascular, endocrine, and neural structures. Pathology that arises within this region is often similarly complex, and requires a combination of endocrinologic, ophthalmologic, and neurologic examinations combined with advanced neuroimaging modalities. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has become the gold standard for characterization of sellar and parasellar pathology due to the high contrast and detail it provides. Computed tomography (CT) allows for identification of bony involvement of lesions and also the general bony anatomy of the sellar region. Both modalities combined allow for complete characterization of sellar and parasellar pathology.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Diagnostic Imaging / methods*
  • Diagnostic Imaging / trends
  • Humans
  • Pituitary Gland / pathology*
  • Pituitary Gland / surgery
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / diagnosis
  • Pituitary Neoplasms / surgery
  • Sella Turcica / pathology*
  • Sella Turcica / surgery