hyperprolactinaemia

Question 1

define hyperprolactinaemia

Answer 1

Excess serum prolactin because of a prolactinoma or drugs.

Question 2

what is the effect of hyperolactinaemia on the blood ?

Answer 2

high levels of prolactin in the blood

Question 3

what is prolactin released from?

Answer 3

from lactotrophs in the anterior pituitary gland

Question 4

what are the two causes of hyperprolactinaemia?

Answer 4

-There could be a tumour that is secreting prolactin (prolactinoma).

-Or you are taking drugs such as ecstasy.

Question 5

how is hyperprolactinaemia diagnosed?

Answer 5

High Serum Prolactin

> 1000mlU/l on one reading

OR

500-1000mlU/l on two occasions

Question 6

what are the risk factors of hyperprolactinaemia?

Answer 6

-Female
-High serum prolactin

Question 7

what are the symptoms of hyperprolactinaemia?

Answer 7

-Secondary amenorrhoea
-Galactorrhoea (breast milk)
-Sexual Dysfunction
-Gynaecomastia (man boobs)

Question 8

what is the treatment/management of hyperprolactinaemia?

Answer 8

-Dopamine agonists such as cabergoline or bromocriptine can cause the prolactinoma to shrink.

If this is not possible, surgical removal of the prolactinoma is an option.