Prolactin is a hormone that is primarily produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. Here are some reasons why you may need to have your prolactin levels tested:
To diagnose or monitor prolactinoma: Prolactinoma is a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland that produces too much prolactin. High levels of prolactin in the blood can cause a range of symptoms, including irregular periods, infertility, breast milk production in non-lactating women, decreased sex drive, and erectile dysfunction in men. Measuring prolactin levels can help diagnose prolactinoma and monitor its treatment.
To assess infertility or menstrual cycle disorders: High levels of prolactin in the blood can interfere with ovulation and cause menstrual cycle irregularities, leading to infertility. Testing prolactin levels may be helpful in diagnosing these conditions.
To evaluate certain medications or other conditions: Some medications, such as antidepressants, can cause an increase in prolactin levels. Certain conditions, such as hypothyroidism or kidney disease, can also cause high prolactin levels. Testing prolactin levels can help identify the underlying cause of these conditions.
Overall, testing for prolactin levels may be useful in diagnosing or monitoring prolactinoma, assessing infertility or menstrual cycle disorders, and evaluating certain medications or other conditions. If you have concerns about any of these issues, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine if testing is appropriate for you.
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