Prolactin Test
Prolactin Test
The prolactin (PRL) test measures the level of the prolactin hormone in your blood. It is a reproductive hormone produced by the pituitary gland and plays an important role in the development of breasts in females and the production of milk in pregnant women.
The level of prolactin is low in normal individuals. Higher levels of prolactin are seen in pregnant women and lactating mothers. Higher levels of prolactin in normal women may indicate menstrual irregularities and infertility. In men, higher levels indicate low sex drive and erectile dysfunction. The levels of prolactin may also increase during pituitary gland tumours. Healthcare providers use this test to determine the level of prolactin and disorders of the pituitary gland.
Prolactin hormone test is also known as PRL test, prolactin blood test, PRL. It helps in the functioning of reproductive organs, development of breast tissue, and in lactation (milk discharge from the breast).
A PRL test is done to determine the pituitary hormone prolactin levels in the blood. Excess levels of PRL may lead to hormonal imbalance, which may affect sexual functioning and cause unusual breast discharges. Thus, getting your PRL test is recommended to screen and monitor hormonal causes in cases of breast secretions and pituitary gland diseases
What is the PRL test used for?
PRL test is used to determine:
Irregular menstrual cycles
Cause of infertility
Breast secretions
Tumours of the pituitary gland
Who should be tested?
PRL test is recommended to be performed frequently for individuals at increased risk of infertility or having pituitary tumours. The following factors can increase the risk of infertility and may affect reproductive health
Irregular periods
Difficulty in conceiving
Discharge from the nipple
Sudden weight gain
Difficulty in lactation
Reduced or increased appetite
Low sperm count
Changes in vision
Prolactinoma (non-cancerous growth)
Test preparation:
Fasting for 8 to 10 hours is required before the prolactin test. During this time, only water can be consumed. Some medications might affect your test results. So, make sure that your healthcare provider is aware of your medical history.
Interpretation of results (Nanograms per mille litre)
|
Gender |
Normal range of PRL (ng/mL) |
|
Male |
2-8 ng/mL |
|
Female |
2-29 ng/mL |
|
Female (pregnant) |
10-209 ng/mL |
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Deviation from normal results indicates the following:
·    For effective reproduction, minimum quantities of Prolactin must be present during the menstrual cycles.
·      Elevated prolactin levels may be detected in polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, and men’s hypogonadism. High levels in both men and women may indicate non-cancerous tumours.
·      Low levels of prolactin indicate a lack of breast tissue development and breast milk secretion after delivery.
FAQs
What is the significance of the PRL test?
The PRL test determines the level of prolactin in your body. The screening, monitoring, diagnosis, and follow-up of breast secretions, as well as other medical conditions like non-cancerous tumours of the pituitary gland (Prolactinoma), can be done with a PRL blood test
How is a PRL test performed?
During this blood test, a healthcare professional will take a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle, which is then collected in a test tube or vial. This usually takes less than a few minutes
What are the risks associated with the PRL test?
There are no known risks. During a blood test, one may experience minor pain or bruising where the needle was inserted, but most symptoms will subside quickly
What might affect my PRL test results?
PRL levels can be altered in the following cases:
·      Conditions like injury to the chest wall, nipple rings, and diseases of the brain, thyroid gland, and kidney.
·      Abnormal clearance of prolactin molecules (macroprolactin).
·      Using certain medications like antidepressants, butyrophenones, oestrogens, and H2 blockers can increase prolactin levels abnormally.
So, it is recommended to consult your healthcare provider before the prolactin test
What is the turnaround time (TAT) for the result of the PRL test?
PRL test result is usually available within 2-3 working days. Test results might be mailed or made available online through health portals. Your doctor might also contact you by phone or email to go over your test findings or to arrange a follow-up appointment
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