USMLE (United States Medical Licensing Examination) Step 1 Practice Exam

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Which condition is characterized by an empty sella turcica on radiological studies, leading to compression and atrophy of the pituitary gland?

Acute thyroiditis
Empty sella syndrome
Estrogen Effects on TBG and Thyroid Hormones
Hashimoto thyroiditis

The correct answer is: Empty sella syndrome

Empty sella syndrome is a condition where the sella turcica, a bony structure in the skull that houses the pituitary gland, appears empty on radiological studies. This can lead to compression and atrophy of the pituitary gland. The other options, although they may involve the pituitary gland or thyroid hormones, do not cause an empty sella on radiological studies. Acute thyroiditis refers to inflammation of the thyroid gland, Estrogen Effects on TBG and Thyroid Hormones refers to the effects of estrogen on thyroid hormone levels, and Hashimoto thyroiditis is a chronic autoimmune disorder affecting the thyroid gland. These conditions would not result in an empty sella on radiological studies.