Frequently asked questions about hyperprolactinemia

Hyperprolactinemia is a female disease that can cause infertility, oligomenorrhea, amenorrhea and other symptoms, causing a lot of trouble to the patient's life and psychology. So, what are the common problems related to hyperprolactinemia? Below, we will introduce what are the common problems related to hyperprolactinemia.

1. What is hyperprolactinemia (HPRL) and what are the diagnostic indicators?

The state in which the peripheral serum prolactin level is continuously higher than the normal value due to various reasons is called hyperprolactinemia (HPRL). It can be diagnosed by measuring the serum endocrine prolactin level. The normal prolactin level of women of childbearing age does not exceed 1.14-1.36nmol/L (25-30ng/ml) (each laboratory has its own normal value). Since the diagnosis of hyperprolactinemia is based on the serum prolactin measurement value, standardized blood sample collection and accurate and reliable laboratory measurement are particularly important for the diagnosis of HPRL, especially when the prolactin level is slightly elevated, sometimes 2-3 repeated measurements are required. In short, there are many reasons for the increase in prolactin. Doctors need to make a comprehensive analysis of clinical manifestations and serum prolactin levels to diagnose HPRL.

2. What should be paid attention to when taking blood for prolactin test?

1. Blood collection time: Since serum prolactin levels are affected by pulsed secretion and different secretions during the day and night, blood collection should be done at the lowest point of the day, which is preferably 10 to 11 a.m. Serum prolactin levels do not change significantly with the menstrual cycle, so there is currently no special requirement for blood collection on a certain day of the menstrual cycle.

2. Mental state during blood drawing: Stressful situations such as mental tension, cold weather, and intense exercise can cause prolactin levels to rise several times, but this does not last more than 1 hour. Therefore, patients should be asked to rest for an hour before blood drawing. For healthy women, stimulating the breasts when not breastfeeding can also cause prolactin levels to rise.

3. Who is prone to hyperprolactinemia (HPRL)

Hyperprolactinemia (HPRL) is a common endocrine disorder of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis in young women. It is more common in patients with amenorrhea and anovulation. If accompanied by galactorrhea, the incidence rate is significantly increased. In patients with amenorrhea and galactorrhea, the incidence of HPRL is as high as 70%. In patients with anovulation and galactorrhea, the incidence of HPRL is 43%. 3% to 10% of patients with anovulatory polycystic ovary syndrome are accompanied by HPRL. Therefore, HPRL is common in patients visiting infertility clinics.