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Prolactin


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Prolactin

Alternative Names:

PRL
Normal Values:

The normal values for prolactin are as follows:

  • Males and nonpregnant females: 0 to 20 ng/ml
  • Pregnancy: 10 to 300 ng/ml
Note: ng/ml = nanograms per milliliter
What abnormal results mean:
text continues below

Prolactin levels can be elevated in the following conditions:

  • Prolactinomas (a pituitary tumor that makes prolactin)
  • Other pituitary tumors and disease
  • Hypothalamic disease
  • Hypothyroidism
  • Kidney disease
  • Chest wall trauma or irritation
  • Medication-related (estrogens, tricyclic antidepressants, metoclopramide, phenothiazines, butyrophenones, reserpine, methyldopa, H2 blockers)

If your prolactin levels are elevated, the test may be repeated following an 8-hour fast.
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