Home
HelpTest Code LAB531 Prolactin
Useful For
- The diagnosis of anovular cycles, hyperprolactinemic amenorrhea and galactorrhea, gynecomastia and azoo-spermia.
- Investigating breast cancer and pituitary tumors.
- Hyperprolactinemia (in men and women) is the main cause of fertility disorders.
- During pregnancy the concentration of prolactin rises under the influence of elevated estrogen and progesterone production.
Methodology
Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Performing Laboratory
Bozeman Health Laboratory Services
Specimen Requirements
Specimen Type: Plasma or Serum
Container/Tube: Light-green top (lithium heparin gel), red top, or gold top
Specimen Volume: 2 mL
Specimen Minimum Volume: 1 mL
Specimen Transport Temperature
Ambient/Refrigerated
Specimen Stability
| Specimen Type | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Plasma or Serum | Ambient | 5 days |
| Refrigerated | 14 days | |
| Frozen | 6 months |
Reference Values
Males: 4.1-15.2 ng/mL
Females: 4.8-23.3 ng/mL
Additional Information
-
When determining prolactin it should be remembered that the measured concentration is dependent upon when the blood sample was taken, since the secretion of prolactin occurs in episodes and is also subject to a 24‑hour cycle. Prolactin levels exhibit peak levels during sleep and lowest levels in the late-morning.
-
Hyperthyroidism, renal failure, and a number of pharmaceuticals (opiates, neuroleptic agents, estrogen, oral contraceptives, and exogenous TRh) are associated with increased prolactin levels, while L-dopa, clonidine, and bromocriptine lower prolactin levels.
Day(s) Test Set Up
Monday through Sunday
Test Classification and CPT Coding
84146