Prolactin and Hyperprolactinemia in Female Reproductive Endocrinology – An Update
February 2021
in “
Facta Universitatis
”
Studysummary This review discusses the current understanding of prolactin's role in female reproductive health and the diagnosis and treatment of hyperprolactinaemia but reports no new clinical findings.
Our plain-language summary. Not medical advice or a treatment recommendation. Consult a qualified healthcare professional before changing treatment. Full disclaimer
The document discusses the significant role of prolactin, a hormone, in physiological processes such as lactation and reproduction. It also explores the health issues caused by hyperprolactinemia, an excess of prolactin in the blood, which include menstrual irregularities, infertility, and sexual dysfunction. The impact of hyperprolactinemia on conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis is also discussed. The document emphasizes the importance of accurate diagnosis and effective management of hyperprolactinemia, which can be complicated due to factors like the 'hook effect' that can result in falsely low serum prolactin readings in cases of invasive macroprolactinomas. It also mentions the prevalence and clinical significance of macroprolactinemia, a condition characterized by high levels of macroprolactin, in patients with prolactinomas.
