Davis's Lab & Diagnostic Tests
Prolactin
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Synonym/Acronym:
Luteotropic hormone, lactogenic hormone, lactogen, HPRL, PRL.
Rationale
To assess for lactation disorders and identify the presence of prolactin-secreting tumors to assist in diagnosing disorders such as lactation failure.
Patient Preparation
There are no fluid, activity, or medication restrictions unless by medical direction. Instruct the patient to fast for 12 hr before specimen collection because hyperglycemia can cause a short-term increase in prolactin levels. Specimen collection should occur between 0800 and 1000.
Normal Findings
Method: Immunoassay.
| Age | Conventional Units | SI Units (Conventional Units × 1) |
|---|---|---|
| Prepubertal males and females | 3.2–20 ng/mL | 3.2–20 mcg/L |
| Adult males | 4–23 ng/mL | 4–23 mcg/L |
| Adult females | 4–30 ng/mL | 4–30 mcg/L |
| Pregnant | 5.3–215.3 ng/mL | 5.3–215.3 mcg/L |
| Postmenopausal | 2.4–24 ng/mL | 2.4–24 mcg/L |
Critical Findings and Potential Interventions
N/A
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