Prolactin -
(QUEST DIAGNOSTICS)Description: Prolactin is a protein hormone of the anterior lobe of the pituitary gland that induces and maintains lactation in the postpartum female.
During pregnancy and postpartum lactation, serum prolactin can increase 10- to 20-fold. Exercise, stress, and sleep also cause transient increases in prolactin levels. Consistently elevated serum prolactin levels (>30 ng/mL), in the absence of pregnancy and postpartum lactation, are indicative of hyperprolactinemia. Hypersecretion of prolactin can be caused by pituitary adenomas, hypothalamic disease, breast or chest wall stimulation, renal failure or hypothyroidism. A number of drugs, including many antidepressants, are also common causes of abnormally elevated prolactin levels. Hyperprolactinemia often results in galactorrhea, amenorrhea, and infertility in females, and in impotence and hypogonadism in males. Renal failure, hypothyroidism, and prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas are also common causes of abnormally elevated prolactin levels.
A significant deviation from the normal range may require further evaluation by your physician.
Includes: Prolactin, serum.Patient Instructions: Overnight fasting is preferred. Fasting is defined as no consumption of food or beverage other than water for at least 8 - 10 hours before testing.
Categories: Hormones and Metabolism
