Prolactin and Hyperprolactinemia in Female Reproductive Endocrinology – An Update

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.