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pituitary gland disorders: acromegaly  hypopituitarism hyperprolactinaemia gigantism empty sella syndrome prolactinoma galactorrhea pituitary tumors |
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How is a prolactinoma diagnosed?
A doctor will test for prolactin blood levels in women with unexplained milk secretion (galactorrhea) or irregular menses or infertility, and in men with impaired sexual function and, in rare cases, milk secretion. If prolactin is high, a doctor will test thyroid function and ask first about other conditions and medications known to raise prolactin secretion. The doctor will also request a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which is the most sensitive test for detecting pituitary tumors and determining their size. MRI scans may be repeated periodically to assess tumor progression and the effects of therapy. Computer Tomography (CT scan) also gives an image of the pituitary, but it is less sensitive than the MRI.
In addition to assessing the size of the pituitary tumor, doctors also look for damage to surrounding tissues, and perform tests to assess whether production of other pituitary hormones is normal. Depending on the size of the tumor, the doctor may request an eye exam with measurement of visual fields. |
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More information on prolactinoma
What is a prolactinoma? - A prolactinoma is a benign tumor (adenoma) of the pituitary gland that produces a hormone called prolactin. It is the most common type of pituitary tumor.
What causes a prolactinoma? - The cause of prolactinoma remains unknown. Symptoms of prolactinoma are caused by too much prolactin in the blood hyperprolactinemia.
What are the symptoms of prolactinoma? - In men, the most common symptoms of prolactinoma are impotence, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, and infertility.
How is a prolactinoma diagnosed? - A doctor will test for prolactin blood levels in women with unexplained milk secretion (galactorrhea) or irregular menses or infertility.
What're the treatments for prolactinoma? - The goal of treatment for prolactinoma is to return prolactin secretion to normal, reduce tumor size, correct any visual abnormalities, and restore normal pituitary function. |
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