Prolactin Levels Test

Prolactin Levels in Pediatric Age

Prolactin (PRL) is a polypeptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland. In pediatric patients, prolactin assessment is crucial for evaluating various endocrine disorders and monitoring pituitary function.

Key Points:

Primary function: Stimulates breast development and milk production
Secretion controlled by hypothalamic dopamine (inhibitory)
Exhibits diurnal variation with peak levels during sleep
Significant role in growth and metabolic regulation during childhood

Indications for Testing:

Delayed or precocious puberty
Galactorrhea
Growth abnormalities
Visual disturbances suggesting pituitary tumors
Menstrual irregularities in adolescent females
Headaches with endocrine symptoms

Common Pathological Conditions:

Prolactinomas
Other pituitary tumors
Primary hypothyroidism
Drug-induced hyperprolactinemia
Pituitary stalk disruption

Age-Specific Reference Ranges:

Newborns (0-2 months):

Male: 100-250 ng/mL

Female: 100-250 ng/mL

Infants (2-12 months):

Male: 50-150 ng/mL

Female: 50-150 ng/mL

Children (1-10 years):

Male: 2-18 ng/mL

Female: 2-20 ng/mL

Adolescents (11-17 years):

Male: 2-23 ng/mL

Female: 4-29 ng/mL

Note: Values may vary by laboratory and testing method

Sample Collection Protocol:

Collect in early morning (8-10 AM)
Fasting for 8-12 hours recommended
Avoid physical or emotional stress before collection
Document current medications
Rest for 30 minutes before collection

Important Considerations:

Multiple samples may be needed due to pulsatile secretion
Consider pool sampling in specific cases
Document sleep patterns and recent stressors
Note any recent radiological procedures

Elevated Prolactin (Hyperprolactinemia):

Mild elevation (20-50 ng/mL):
- Stress
- Exercise
- Medications
Moderate elevation (50-100 ng/mL):
- Hypothyroidism
- Renal failure
- Small prolactinomas
Marked elevation (>100 ng/mL):
- Macro-prolactinomas
- Pregnancy
- Severe primary hypothyroidism

Low Prolactin (Hypoprolactinemia):

Sheehan syndrome
Pituitary surgery
Radiation therapy
Autoimmune disorders