Prolactin

Product Description

Price: 15 د.ا

Prolactin is a peptide hormone produced primarily by the anterior pituitary gland. While best known for its role in lactation, it also influences immune regulation, metabolism, reproductive health, and behavior.

Functions

  • In females:

    • Stimulates milk production (lactogenesis) after childbirth

    • Regulates menstrual cycles and supports fertility

  • In males:

    • Modulates testosterone production and supports sperm development

  • Additional roles:

    • Modulates immune responses

    • Influences metabolism, fluid balance, and stress adaptation

Normal Ranges (ng/mL)

  • Females: 4.8 – 23.3

  • Males: 4.0 – 15.2

Clinical Significance

  • Hyperprolactinemia (Elevated Prolactin)

    • Causes:

      • Prolactin-secreting pituitary adenoma (prolactinoma)

      • Hypothyroidism

      • Chronic kidney disease

      • Certain medications (e.g., antipsychotics, antiemetics)

    • Symptoms in women:

      • Galactorrhea (milk discharge unrelated to breastfeeding)

      • Oligomenorrhea or amenorrhea (irregular or absent periods)

      • Infertility

    • Symptoms in men:

      • Decreased libido

      • Erectile dysfunction

      • Rarely galactorrhea

  • Hypoprolactinemia (Low Prolactin)

    • Causes:

      • Pituitary insufficiency

      • Excessive stress

    • Symptoms in women:

      • Inadequate breast milk production after delivery

      • Irregular menstrual cycles

      • Infertility

    • Symptoms in men:

      • Generally fewer clear signs, may include reduced libido and mild infertility

Diagnosis

  • Blood test measuring serum prolactin, ideally drawn in the early morning after minimal stress.

  • If elevated without clear cause, further evaluation may include:

    • MRI or CT scan of the pituitary gland

    • Thyroid function tests

    • Renal function tests

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. What causes high prolactin levels?

    • Pituitary tumors (prolactinomas), untreated hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and certain medications.

  2. How is prolactin tested?

    • Via a simple blood draw; fasting is not typically required, but avoid stress before the test.

  3. How is hyperprolactinemia treated?

    • Dopamine agonists (e.g., bromocriptine), treating underlying hypothyroidism, or surgery for large adenomas.

  4. Can stress affect prolactin levels?

    • Yes, acute physical or emotional stress can temporarily raise prolactin.

  5. What are the effects of low prolactin?

    • Difficulty with postpartum milk production and potential menstrual irregularities in women; mild reproductive impact in men.

  • Function in the Body

  • Symptoms of Deficiency

  • Symptoms of Overdose

  • Diagnosis

  • More Information

Frequently Asked Questions

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