Test Code 1180
Test Details
Prolactin
Prolactin is a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that has many functions including milk production after pregnancy and maintenance of the immune system.
Methodology
Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay
Patient Preparation
None
Preferred Specimen
1.0 mL serum collected in a serum separator tube (SST/Tiger Top)
Alternate Specimen
1.0 mL plasma collected in a plasma separator tube (PST/Pearl Top)
Transport Temperature
Refrigerated (ship on frozen cold packs)
Stability
Refrigerated: 14 days
Lab Values
Prolactin
Male:
- Normal Range: 4.0 – 15.2 ng/mL
Female:
- Normal Range: 4.8 – 23.3 ng/mL
Clinical Significance
Prolactin
A hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that has many functions including milk production after pregnancy and maintenance of the immune system.
- Abnormally high prolactin can delay puberty, interfere with ovulation and fertility in women, and decrease libido, erectile function, and fertility in men.
- Elevated prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) may be due to a variety of medical conditions and medications. A benign tumor in the pituitary gland called a prolactinoma is one possible cause.
Treatment Options
Prolactin
The treatment for abnormal prolactin levels depends on the underlying cause. Prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors (prolactinomas) can be treated with medication or surgery.
