Prolactin

From Health Facts
Jump to: navigation, search
Latest Edit: Hector 2014-03-24 (EDT)

See Also Lab Tests

The prolactin test is used to determine whether an individual's prolactin levels are higher than normal. It is commonly done in the assessment of fertility concerns or with amenorrhea.[1], [2]

Discussion

  • Prolactin is a hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland and its primary role is to promote lactation or breast milk production.
  • Prolactin levels are therefore usually high throughout pregnancy and just after childbirth.
  • Men and non-pregnant women have only small amounts of prolactin in their blood.

Patient Preparation

  • Fasting is preferred.
  • Factors which can cause increased levels:
  • Stresses from illness, Trauma, Fear of having blood test done

Clinical Implications

High levels indicate:

Low levels indicate:

  • Hypopituitarism
  • Drugs such as dopamine, levodopa, and ergot alkaloid derivatives

Associated Tests

References

  1. Pagana Kathleen D, Pagana Timothy J (2006) Mosby's Manual of Diagnostic and Laboratory Tests, Mosby.
  2. Weatherby Dicken, Ferguson Scott (2002) Blood Chemistry and CBC Analysis: Clinical Laboratory Testing from a Functional Perspective, Bear Mountain.