How are prolactinomas diagnosed?
- Blood test to identify high prolactin levels in the body
- MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan of the pituitary
More About Prolactinoma and Hyperprolactinemia
Prolactinoma is the most common type of pituitary tumor. About 25% of the U.S. population have small pituitary tumors such as prolactinomas. Most of these cause no symptoms.
Symptoms:
- infertility in women
- change in menstrual regularity
- production of breast milk, even in a non-pregnant or nursing woman
- loss of interest in sex or impotence
- headaches
- vision problems
Prolactin is a natural hormone that is necessary for lactation(breastfeeding).
Treatment of Prolactinoma
- Medications such as bromocriptine (Parlodel) or cabergoline (Dostinex)
- Surgery is considered only if medications are not effective or not tolerated