Prolactin Test in Amravati - Price & Details

Prolactin is a hormone produced in the front lobe of the pituitary gland called the anterior pituitary gland. Lactotroph cells in the pituitary gland produce the hormone prolactin and release it into the bloodstream.

The two main functions of the prolactin hormone are the development of mammary glands within the breast tissues and the production of milk. During pregnancy and lactation, the prolactin hormone promotes the growth of the mammary alveoli, which are the components of the mammary gland, where the actual production of milk occurs. That is why the prolactin hormone is very high in women who are pregnant or have given birth. The level of the prolactin hormone steadily increases during pregnancy, and it remains high in lactating women. In non-lactating women, the levels return to normal after 2 to 3 weeks of delivery. It's level is low in men, and women who are not pregnant.

Often, an excess of the prolactin hormone in the blood indicates the presence of prolactinoma. Prolactinoma is a type of hormone-secreting tumour that grows on the pituitary gland. Prolactinoma is a benign tumour (non-cancerous). It is not life-threatening. Prolactinoma causes the pituitary gland to produce excess prolactin hormone. This results in overproduction of the prolactin hormone, which causes other problems such as headache, vision changes, decreased peripheral vision, and infertility.

In men, an excess of prolactin causes:

• Breast enlargement
• Nipple discharge
• Erectile dysfunction
• Low sex drive
• Decrease in facial and body hair

In women, too much prolactin can cause:

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods
• Menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal dryness
• Thinning and weakening of bones (osteoporosis)
• Acne and excessive body and facial hair growth
• Breast discharge in non-pregnant women

Too much prolactin can cause hypothyroidism in women after menopause. The symptoms are fatigue, weight gain, muscle pain, and cold sensitivity.

Other than a prolactinoma, the factors that most often lead to a temporary rise of the prolactin hormone in the blood are protein-rich meals, physical or emotional stress, breast examination, and exercise.

Many medical conditions can also affect the prolactin levels in the blood, which includes-

• Pituitary disorders
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Anorexia nervosa
• Seizures
• Lung cancer
• Shingles in the chest
• Certain medications

A prolactin test is used to help find the cause of menstrual irregularities and/or infertility in women. You may be suggested to get a prolactin test if you have symptoms that may be caused by a prolactinoma. The symptoms are as follows:

• Decreased peripheral vision
• Vision disorder
• Headache
• Decreased sexual interest
• Breast tenderness
• Infertility

Doctors may recommend a prolactin test to monitor the levels of the prolactin hormone during the treatment of prolactinoma.

This test is part of a broader set of tests that help to detect and diagnose those health conditions that trigger fluctuations in prolactin levels, such as anorexia and thyroid and adrenal gland disorders.

No special preparation is required for the Prolactin test. Patients should follow their regular routines, but it's important to inform the doctor about any medications being taken, as certain drugs can affect prolactin levels. Stress can also influence prolactin levels, so patients are advised to be calm and relaxed before the test.

During the Prolactin Test

• The PharmEasy phlebotomist will reach your home.
• A vein finder will be utilised to accurately find the vein in your arm which is the most suitable for blood drawing.
• A new and clean needle and syringe will be used to draw blood.
• The collected sample will be sealed and packed in an icebox for transportation.