Laboratory Medicine Program

Prolactin

Clinical Decription:
Prolactin is a single-chain poypeptide hormone secreted by theanterior pituitary under the control of prolactin-inhibiting factors and prolactin ?releasing factors. These inhibiting and releasing factors are secreted by the hypothalamus. Prolactin is also synthesized by the placenta and is present in amniotic fluid. Prolactin initiates and maintains lactation in females. It also plays a role in regulating gonadal function in both males and females. In adults, basal circulating prolactin is present in concentrations up to 30ng/ml(636uIU/ml). During pregnancy and postpartum lactation, serum prolactin can increase10-20 fold. Exercise , stress and sleep also cause transient increase in prolactin levels. Consistently elevated serum prolactin levels greater than 30 ng/ml (636uIU/ml) in the absence of pregnancy and postpartum lactation are indicative of hyperprolactinemia, which is the most common hypothalamic-pituitary dysfunction emcountered in clinical endocrinology. Hyperprolactinemia often results in galactorrhea,ammenorrhea, and infertility in females, and in impotence and hypogonadism in males. Renal failure,hypothyroidism and prolactin-secreting pituitary adenomas are also common causes of abnormally elevated prolactin levels.

Method: Automated method

Component Tests Used: n/a

Reference Ranges Used:
Male: 3.5-19.4 ug/L ; Female: 5.2-26.5 ug/L

Specimen Type: serum
Volume: 3 mL (minimum: 1 mL)

Shipping: 4C

Special Instructions: Triple bolus - mark collection times on tubes. Centrifuge and aliquot.

Testing Schedule(s): Daily.

Turnaround Time: 1 day

For more information, call 416.340.5227 or 1.866.865.5227