The Turkish saddle, also known by its Latin name sella turcica, is a saddle-shaped depression in the body of the sphenoid bone of the human skull and of the skulls of other hominids including chimpanzees, gorillas and orangutans. This crucial anatomical landmark, nestled at the base of the brain, is primarily known for housing and protecting the vital pituitary gland.
Anatomy and Location
The sella turcica is an integral part of the sphenoid bone, a complex bone that forms part of the middle cranial fossa. Its distinctive saddle-like shape provides a secure and protective niche for the pituitary gland, one of the body's most important endocrine glands.
Key anatomical features of the Turkish saddle include:
- Tuberculum sellae: The anterior (front) border, forming the 'pommel' of the saddle.
- Hypophysial fossa: The deepest part of the depression, where the pituitary gland resides. This is the 'seat' of the saddle.
- Dorsum sellae: The posterior (back) border, resembling the 'cantle' of the saddle.
This strategic location places the pituitary gland directly beneath the brain, connecting it to the hypothalamus via the pituitary stalk.
The Pituitary Gland's Home
The primary function of the Turkish saddle is to cradle and safeguard the pituitary gland. Often referred to as the "master gland," the pituitary gland produces and secretes hormones that control various bodily functions, including:
- Growth
- Metabolism
- Reproduction
- Stress response
Without the protective enclosure of the sella turcica, this delicate gland would be vulnerable to injury.
Clinical Significance
The Turkish saddle is an extremely important anatomical landmark for medical professionals, especially in fields like neurosurgery, endocrinology, and radiology. Its relationship with the pituitary gland makes it a focal point for diagnosing and treating a range of conditions.
- Radiological Imaging: The sella turcica is clearly visible on X-rays, CT scans, and MRI scans. Doctors use these images to assess the size and shape of the pituitary gland and identify any abnormalities, such as tumors (e.g., pituitary adenomas).
- Neurosurgical Approaches: Surgeons often use the sella turcica as a key reference point during transsphenoidal surgery, a minimally invasive technique to access and remove pituitary tumors through the nasal cavity.
- Endocrine Disorders: Changes in the size or structure of the sella turcica can sometimes indicate underlying endocrine disorders related to pituitary gland dysfunction, such as acromegaly or Cushing's disease.
- Empty Sella Syndrome: In some cases, the sella turcica may appear "empty" on imaging, meaning the pituitary gland is shrunken or flattened, and the space is filled with cerebrospinal fluid. This condition, known as empty sella syndrome, is often benign but can sometimes be associated with pituitary dysfunction.
Why the Name "Turkish Saddle"?
The term "Turkish saddle" is a direct translation of its Latin name, sella turcica. This name was given due to its striking resemblance to the saddles used by Turkish horsemen, which typically featured a prominent pommel and cantle, creating a deep depression for the rider. This descriptive naming highlights the unique and easily recognizable shape of this critical skull structure.
Key Facts About the Turkish Saddle
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Alternative Name | Sella Turcica (Latin) |
| Location | Body of the Sphenoid Bone at the base of the human skull and other hominids |
| Shape | Saddle-shaped depression |
| Primary Role | Houses and protects the Pituitary Gland |
| Clinical Relevance | Essential for radiology, neurosurgery, and endocrinology in diagnosing and treating pituitary-related conditions (e.g., tumors, empty sella syndrome). |
[[Human Anatomy]]
