Prolactin: Why It Is Done
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Why It Is Done
A test for prolactin is done:
- To find the cause of abnormal nipple discharge, or if a woman is not having periods (amenorrhea) or if a woman is having a hard time becoming pregnant (infertile).
- In a man when a pituitary gland problem is suspected. Also, a prolactin test may be done to check levels if a man lacks sexual desire or if he has a hard time having an erection (erectile dysfunction). Prolactin levels may be checked when a man's testosterone levels are really low.
- To see whether a tumor in the pituitary gland (called a prolactinoma) is making large amounts of prolactin.
| Last updated: | July 15, 2008 |
|---|---|
| Author: | Sandy Jocoy, RN |
| Reviewed By: | Joy Melnikow, MD, MPH - Family Medicine, Deborah A. Penava, BA, MD, FRCSC, MPH - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
| Editors: | Kathleen M. Ariss, MS, Tracy Landauer |
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