Prolactin
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Measures prolactin hormone to evaluate pituitary tumors, infertility, or galactorrhea.
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🧪 What is the Prolactin Test?
Prolactin is a hormone secreted primarily by the anterior pituitary gland. It plays a key role in:
- Stimulating milk production (lactation) after childbirth
- Regulating reproductive functions and menstrual cycle
- Influencing immune response
❓ Why is the Test Done?
To:
- Investigate causes of galactorrhea (unexpected milk production)
- Evaluate amenorrhea, infertility, or irregular menstruation
- Diagnose pituitary tumors (prolactinomas)
- Assess hypothalamic or pituitary disorders
- Monitor treatment response in hyperprolactinemia
📊 Normal Range (varies by lab, gender, and pregnancy status)
Group | Normal Prolactin Levels (ng/mL) |
|---|---|
Non-pregnant women | 4.8 – 23.3 |
Pregnant women | Up to 200 or more |
Men | 4.0 – 15.2 |
📈 Interpretation of Results
Prolactin Level | Possible Meaning |
|---|---|
Elevated (Hyperprolactinemia) | Pituitary adenoma (prolactinoma), hypothyroidism, medications (antipsychotics, antidepressants), stress, renal failure, chest wall injury |
Low Prolactin | Rare, may indicate pituitary insufficiency |
Normal | No prolactin-related disorder |
🧠 Associated Organs & Conditions
Organ/System | Conditions |
|---|---|
Pituitary gland | Prolactinoma, hypopituitarism |
Hypothalamus | Regulation of prolactin secretion |
Reproductive system | Infertility, menstrual irregularities |
Kidneys | Chronic kidney disease (can increase prolactin) |
🔄 Related / Follow-Up Tests
- Thyroid function tests (TSH, Free T4) – hypothyroidism can raise prolactin
- MRI of pituitary – to detect adenomas
- Pregnancy test (β-hCG) – pregnancy elevates prolactin
- Other pituitary hormones – assess overall pituitary function
- Renal function tests – chronic kidney disease impact
✅ Fasting Required?
Test | Fasting Required |
|---|---|
Prolactin | ❌ No |
Sample should be collected at least 2 hours after waking to avoid falsely elevated early morning levels.
📝 Summary Table
Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
What | Measures serum prolactin hormone levels |
Why | Evaluate galactorrhea, infertility, pituitary disorders |
Normal Range | Women: 4.8–23.3 ng/mL; Men: 4.0–15.2 ng/mL |
Elevated Levels | Pituitary adenoma, hypothyroidism, medications, stress |
Associated Conditions | Prolactinoma, hypopituitarism, infertility |
Follow-up Tests | MRI pituitary, thyroid tests, pregnancy test, renal function |
Fasting Required | ❌ No |
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