Imaging recommendation · Neuro · Head & Neck

Suspected septo-optic dysplasia (de Morsier syndrome)

Q: What's the alternative imaging for suspected septo-optic dysplasia (de morsier syndrome) when endocrine surveillance?

MRI — Pituitary MRI + endocrine work-up (iv contrast).

Recommended: MRI Brain with thin-section through sella + orbits is the preferred imaging study for suspected septo-optic dysplasia (de morsier syndrome). Triad: optic nerve hypoplasia + midline brain defects (absent septum pellucidum) + pituitary dysfunction.

Recommended study

MRI Brain with thin-section through sella + orbits

MRI IV contrast Preferred Neuro · Head & Neck Outpatient Reviewed 2026-05

Triad: optic nerve hypoplasia + midline brain defects (absent septum pellucidum) + pituitary dysfunction. Only need 2 of 3.

If the default doesn't apply

Endocrine surveillance

MRI Pituitary MRI + endocrine work-up IV contrast

Watch-outs

Hypopituitarism risk

Posterior pituitary ectopia → ADH deficiency, growth failure; baseline + serial endocrine evaluation.

Pearls

Look for absent septum pellucidum + optic nerve atrophy on coronal images.
Pituitary ectopia: posterior pituitary bright spot in median eminence rather than sella.
Schizencephaly often coexists — image carefully for cortical clefts.