Test Results For:
Prolactin
Test Overview
- Test Name
-
Prolactin
- Test Code
- PROL
Short Description
PRL
Test Name
Prolactin
Test Code
PROL
Category
Immunoassay
TAT
Main Lab:
6
Hour(s)
Family Site:
<8hrs, <6hrs
Specimen(s)
1 x Venous blood - 5 mL Tube - Gold - SST-Serum Separator Tube
Specimen Type
SST-Serum Separator Tube
Specimen Format
Tube
Specimen Colour
Gold
Specimen Volume
5 mL
Sampling Order
2
Origin
Venous blood
Collection Time after baseline
-
Transport Temperature
15-25°C
Accepted Other Specimens
Serum
TAT
Main Lab:
6
Hour(s)
Family Site:
<8hrs, <6hrs
Test Stability
Room Temp:
8 Hour(s)
2–8°C:
2 Day(s)
Clinical Interest
Human prolactin (hPRL) is a polypeptide produced by the pituitary gland whose secretion is physiologically regulated by inhibitory and releasing factors in the hypothalamus.
Thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) induces prolactin secretion and is useful as a stimulation test for assessing stores and abnormal secretion of prolactin by the pituitary gland.
Its main physiological action is the initiation and maintenance of lactation in women.
Hyperprolactinaemia is a frequent cause of infertility and gonadal disorders in both men and women. Prolactin has been shown to inhibit ovarian steroid secretion and interfere with follicle maturation and the secretion of LH and FSH in women.
Measurement of elevated serum prolactin levels may be the first quantitative evidence of pituitary dysfunction.
Measurement of prolactin levels is also of interest in the assessment and management of patients with amenorrhoea and galactorrhoea.
Various factors other than pathological conditions influence prolactin levels: pregnancy, breast stimulation, stress, coitus, administration of oestrogens, progesterone, androgens, certain psychotropic and antihypertensive drugs, and TRH.
Clinical Information Required
-
Patient Collection Note
Physical and emotional stress can increase prolactin levels. It is advisable to avoid strenuous exercise or activity, and to be in a calm and relaxed state at least 30 minutes to an hour before the blood test.
LOINC Code
568-2, 20568-2
Outwork
No