prolaktinnivåer

Prolaktinnivåer refer to the amount of the hormone prolactin present in the blood. Prolactin is primarily produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain. Its main function is to stimulate milk production in women after childbirth. However, prolactin also plays roles in other bodily functions in both men and women, including immune function and reproduction.

Measuring prolaktinnivåer is typically done through a blood test. Elevated prolaktinnivåer, known as hyperprolactinemia, can occur for various reasons. These include physiological causes such as pregnancy, breastfeeding, stress, and sleep. Medical conditions can also lead to high prolactin levels, including certain medications (like some antidepressants or antipsychotics), pituitary tumors (prolactinomas), hypothyroidism, and chronic kidney disease.

Symptoms of hyperprolactinemia can vary. In women, common signs include irregular or absent menstrual periods, infertility, and milky nipple discharge (galactorrhea) unrelated to pregnancy. In men, high prolactin levels may cause decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, infertility, and in some cases, breast enlargement (gynecomastia) and nipple discharge.

Diagnosis involves blood tests to confirm elevated prolactin levels and further investigations to determine the underlying cause. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve addressing the underlying medical condition, adjusting medications, or in the case of pituitary tumors, medication or surgery. Monitoring prolaktinnivåer is important for managing these conditions and ensuring appropriate treatment outcomes.