This test measures the level of prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. In pregnant women, prolactin stimulates the breasts to produce milk.
When prolactin-producing cells in the pituitary begin to grow out of control, they can form tumors (prolactinomas). Prolactinomas, also known as mammary gland adenomas, are often not cancer. Most commonly seen in women under the age of 50. A symptom of a prolactinoma tumor is milk production, even if the woman is not pregnant. In men, prolactinoma can cause difficulty obtaining or maintaining an erection (impotence) or decreased libido.
If you are diagnosed with prolactinoma, your doctor may prescribe drugs called dopamine agonists, such as: B. Bromocriptine or cabergoline. Cabergoline works well and has been shown to lower prolactin levels in most prolactinoma patients.Cabergoline also reduces the size of prolactinoma tumors.
Why do I need this test?
This test may be needed if your health care provider determines you have a prolactinoma tumor. Symptoms of this type of tumor include:
• leakage of milk in non-pregnant or breastfeeding women
• breast pain in women
• breast enlargement in men
• Decreased libido
• Headache
• Male impotence
• Visual disturbance
What do my test results mean?
Test results may vary depending on age, gender, medical history and other factors. Test results may vary depending on the lab used. may not mean there is a problem
Ask your doctor what the test results mean for you.
Results are given in micrograms per liter (µg/L). Normal prolactin levels in the blood of non-pregnant women are less than 20 µg/L. In men, the normal value is less than her 15 µg / l. If test results show an abnormally high prolactin level, imaging tests may be needed to find out if a prolactinoma tumor is present.
What influences test results?
Certain psychiatric drugs, oral estrogen drugs, cocaine abuse, and opioid drugs can raise prolactin levels above normal. If you have kidney or liver disease, you may also have high prolactin levels.
What does high mean?
Low prolactin levels are usually not a problem in women or men. However, very high levels of prolactin, known as hyperprolactinemia, may indicate a more serious problem. About 10% of the population suffers from hyperprolactinemia.
High prolactin levels are normal during pregnancy and postpartum breastfeeding. However, hyperprolactinemia can also be caused by anorexia nervosa, liver disease, kidney disease, and hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism can cause pituitary hypertrophy that can be treated with thyroid hormone replacement therapy. High prolactin levels can also be caused by pituitary tumors. These tumors can be treated medically or surgically.
certain medications can cause high prolactin levels
Psychotropic drugs such as risperidone and haloperidol can raise levels. Metoclopramide also increases prolactin levels. This drug is usually used to treat acid reflux and nausea caused by chemotherapy.
Some common stressors increase prolactin levels. These stressors include low blood sugar, strenuous exercise, and mild fatigue. If you have high prolactin levels, you may need to find ways to reduce stress and keep your blood sugar at a steady level. there is. If you have high prolactin levels, avoid eating anything containing these ingredients.
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