Question : I have high levels of prolactin in my blood. What does it mean?
Prolactin is a hormone from the pituitary gland that regulates the production of breast milk following childbirth. It also may suppress ovulation. The pituitary may produce too much prolactin as a result of use of certain drugs such as tranquilizers or oral contraceptives or — rarely — as a result of a pituitary tumor called a prolactinoma.
Prolactinomas occur in both women and men. In women, the prolactin may cause a milky discharge from the nipple, infertility or irregular or absent menstrual cycles. In men, it may lead to decreased interest in sex, impotence or infertility.
Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood (in the absence of medication known to cause it) warrants follow-up if the level remains elevated. Imaging of the pituitary with a CT or MRI scan may reveal a tumor. If a tumor is detected, treatment options include the medication bromocriptine or surgical removal of the tumor. The decision regarding the best option is based on specific findings. Usually, consultation with an endocrinologist is warranted.
Prolactin is a hormone from the pituitary gland that regulates the production of breast milk following childbirth. It also may suppress ovulation. The pituitary may produce too much prolactin as a result of use of certain drugs such as tranquilizers or oral contraceptives or — rarely — as a result of a pituitary tumor called a prolactinoma.
Prolactinomas occur in both women and men. In women, the prolactin may cause a milky discharge from the nipple, infertility or irregular or absent menstrual cycles. In men, it may lead to decreased interest in sex, impotence or infertility.
Elevated levels of prolactin in the blood (in the absence of medication known to cause it) warrants follow-up if the level remains elevated. Imaging of the pituitary with a CT or MRI scan may reveal a tumor. If a tumor is detected, treatment options include the medication bromocriptine or surgical removal of the tumor. The decision regarding the best option is based on specific findings. Usually, consultation with an endocrinologist is warranted.
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