Hiperprolaktynemi

Hiperprolaktynemi is a medical condition characterized by elevated levels of prolactin in the blood. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, primarily responsible for stimulating milk production in women after childbirth. However, it is also present in men and women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding.

Elevated prolactin levels can have various causes. These can include benign tumors of the pituitary gland, known as prolactinomas, which are the most common cause. Other factors include certain medications, such as antipsychotics and some antidepressants, as well as hypothyroidism, kidney disease, and stress. In some cases, the cause of hiperprolaktynemi may be unknown, a condition referred to as idiopathic hiperprolaktynemi.

Symptoms of hiperprolaktynemi vary depending on the individual and the severity of the elevation. In women, common symptoms include irregular or absent menstrual periods, infertility, and milk discharge from the nipples (galactorrhea). In men, symptoms can include decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and in some cases, breast enlargement (gynecomastia) and milk discharge.

Diagnosis typically involves a blood test to measure prolactin levels. Further investigations may be conducted to identify the underlying cause, such as imaging studies of the pituitary gland or tests to assess thyroid and kidney function. Treatment for hiperprolaktynemi depends on the cause. If a prolactinoma is present, medication to lower prolactin levels is usually effective. If medications are the cause, adjusting or switching the medication may resolve the issue. Addressing underlying conditions like hypothyroidism or kidney disease is also crucial.