Hyperprolactinemia

Hyperprolactinemia: causes, symptoms and treatment

Hyperprolactinemia is a condition in which the blood level of the hormone prolactin, which is produced by the pituitary gland, is elevated. This condition most often occurs in young women aged 25-40 years, but can also occur in men. In this article we will look at the causes, symptoms and treatments of hyperprolactinemia.

Causes of hyperprolactinemia

There are several reasons that can lead to hyperprolactinemia:

1. A pituitary tumor is the most common cause of hyperprolactinemia. Typically, such tumors are small in size (no more than 2-3 mm). They are benign growths and are not cancerous.

2. Decreased thyroid function (hypothyroidism).

3. Ovarian diseases such as polycystic ovary syndrome.

4. Taking certain medications, including antiemetics (Cerucal), antidepressants (amitriptyline), and high-estrogen birth control.

5. Cirrhosis of the liver.

6. Chronic renal failure (hyperprolactinemia occurs in 65% of patients on hemodialysis).

7. Brain diseases such as meningitis, encephalitis and tumors.

Symptoms of hyperprolactinemia

Symptoms of hyperprolactinemia may vary depending on the gender and age of the patient. Women, as a rule, are concerned about milk discharge from the mammary glands outside of pregnancy (galactorrhea), infertility and menstrual irregularities (most often the absence of it is amenorrhea). Men complain of decreased libido and potency, sometimes in combination with milk production. In some cases, there is excessive growth of body hair and a tendency to acne. As the pituitary tumor grows, blurred vision and headache may occur.

Diagnosis of hyperprolactinemia

To diagnose hyperprolactinemia, you must consult an endocrinologist or gynecologist-endocrinologist. To confirm the diagnosis, the following studies are performed:

1. Blood test for prolactin (blood is taken from a vein).

2. In some cases, you will need to take a blood test for other hormones, such as thyroid hormones.

3. X-ray of the skull and pituitary gland area to identify a tumor.

4. MRI of the brain for a detailed study of the tumor and its size.

5. Ultrasound of the ovaries and uterus to exclude diseases of the reproductive system.

Treatment of hyperprolactinemia

Treatment for hyperprolactinemia depends on the cause of its occurrence. If the cause is a pituitary tumor, surgery or medication may be prescribed to lower prolactin levels. If necessary, radiation treatment can be used.

If the cause of hyperprolactinemia is associated with other diseases, then treatment is aimed at eliminating them. Sometimes medications are prescribed that block the action of prolactin and reduce its level in the blood.

It is important to note that treatment of hyperprolactinemia should be carried out under the supervision of an endocrinologist or gynecologist-endocrinologist, since self-medication can lead to negative consequences.

conclusions

Hyperprolactinemia is a condition in which the level of prolactin in the blood is elevated. Symptoms of hyperprolactinemia can vary and depend on the gender and age of the patient. To diagnose and treat hyperprolactinemia, you must consult an endocrinologist or gynecologist-endocrinologist. Treatment depends on the cause of hyperprolactinemia and should be carried out under the supervision of a physician.