Sella Turcica CT scan is a fundamental imaging exam for the assessment of the pituitary gland and adjacent structures at the base of the skull. It is particularly indicated for the study of hormonal changes, suspected pituitary tumours, or investigation of visual symptoms associated with compression in the sellar region.
What is a Sella Turcica CT scan and what is it for?
Sella Turcica CT scan is a computed tomography exam focused on the analysis of the sella turcica, a small bony structure located at the base of the skull that houses the pituitary gland. This gland plays a central role in hormonal regulation of the body, controlling essential functions such as growth, fertility, metabolism and the production of thyroid and adrenal hormones.
Sella Turcica CT scan is a fast, safe and highly reliable exam to identify bony changes in the region and to assess masses involving the pituitary gland.
How much does a Sella Turcica CT scan cost?
The price of a Sella Turcica CT scan when performed on a private basis is €120.
However, you may undergo a Sella Turcica CT scan through several agreements, including:
- SNS / ARS: When a Sella Turcica CT scan is performed through the SNS, the patient does not pay any amount (you must bring the Health Centre prescription);
- ADSE: If the Sella Turcica CT scan is performed through ADSE, the patient only pays a fee of €14;
- IASFA, ADM GNR, SAD PSP;
- Insurance companies: Médis, Multicare, Advance Care, Allianz, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, SS CGD, SAMS Quadros, SAMS, Montepio, RNA, Generali, Mudum, MGEN, Aegon, Vitória, Una Seguros, other insurers. In this case, the price of the Sella Turcica CT scan varies depending on the insurance you use.
- Health Plans: Medicare, Saúde Prime, Future HealthCare, Continente Wells, ACP, other health plans. In this case, the price of the Sella Turcica CT scan varies depending on the health plan you use.
- Protocols: NRD has protocols with several clinics and institutions that allow you to undergo the exam at very competitive prices. For a Sella Turcica CT scan, the protocol price is €80.
How is it performed?
Sella Turcica CT scan is performed with the patient lying on a table that slides into the CT scanner. High-resolution images of the sellar region are acquired, and intravenous contrast may be required for better characterization of the pituitary gland and adjacent structures. The exam lasts on average about 10 minutes.
NRD has a latest-generation Philips 128-slice scanner, which provides sharp images with a low radiation dose, ensuring safety and effectiveness in every exam.
What does it detect?
Sella Turcica CT scan can detect several abnormalities of the pituitary gland and skull base, such as:
- Pituitary adenomas, both microadenomas and macroadenomas;
- Bony changes of the sella turcica, such as bone erosion or remodelling;
- Tumours involving the sellar and parasellar region, such as meningiomas or craniopharyngiomas;
- Complications related to head trauma or skull base fractures;
- Calcifications or abnormal changes of the pituitary gland;
- Among others.
In which cases is it indicated?
Sella Turcica CT scan is usually requested by the doctor in situations such as:
- Investigation of hormonal changes suggestive of pituitary disease;
- Assessment of suspected pituitary masses, such as adenomas;
- Investigation of visual symptoms, such as loss of visual acuity or double vision, related to compression of the optic chiasm;
- Diagnosis of persistent or atypical headaches associated with suspected pituitary changes;
- Pre- and postoperative assessment in pituitary surgery;
- Monitoring of patients with skull base tumours;
- Among others.
Sella Turcica CT scan with Contrast
Sella Turcica CT scan is often performed with intravenous iodinated contrast, which allows better differentiation of the pituitary gland and evaluation of possible tumoral masses. The injection may cause a transient warm sensation or metallic taste, which quickly disappear.
In these cases, fasting for 4 hours is usually required (you will be informed at the time of booking).
It is essential to inform the team about any known allergies (to medicines, foods, etc.), asthma, allergic rhinitis or previous reactions to contrast agents, as these conditions may increase the risk of adverse reactions.
Preparing for a Sella Turcica CT scan
| Topic | Guidance |
| Exam prescription (paper copy) | You should bring the exam prescription in paper format. |
| Fasting | If the exam is performed with contrast, you must fast for 4 hours. When the exam is performed without contrast, fasting is not required. |
| Arriving early | Generally, you only need to arrive 15 minutes before the exam, except when oral contrast will be used. In that case, you should arrive 1 to 2 hours before the exam (you will be informed at booking). |
| Previous exams | You should bring any relevant previous exams. |
| Medical history | Keep in mind your previous medical history regarding allergies, cardio-respiratory and kidney diseases, and usual medication. |
| Water | If necessary or if you wish, you may drink water. |
NRD will provide you with all necessary instructions at the time of booking.
Instructions during the exam
- Remain still to avoid artefacts on the images;
- Remove jewellery, hair clips, glasses, hearing aids and dentures for head and neck exams.
When and how do you receive the results?
You will receive the CT scan results within up to 7 days after the exam, by email or in paper form at the clinic. On the day of the exam, you will take the CD with the images with you.
Where to have it done?
Sella Turcica CT scan can be performed at NRD, at the following address:
Avenida Columbano Bordalo Pinheiro, nº 11-B, ground floor, 1070 – 060 Lisbon (next to Praça de Espanha)