Hyperprolactinaemia
Hyperprolactinaemia Causes
Hyperprolactinaemia may often result from either the compression of the pituitary stalk and reduced dopamine levels, or from the overproduction of prolactinoma (a pituitary gland adenoma tumour). Studies indicate that a potassium channel opener called Minoxidil may be related to the development of this condition. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, and stress may also cause this disorder to develop. In addition, the ingestion of certain prescription drugs can play a causal role. Examples of such drugs include tranquilizers, trifluoperazine, haloperidol, and some antipsychotic medications, among others.
Hyperprolactinaemia Definition
Hyperprolactinemia (AmE), also known as Hyperprolactinaemia (BrE), is characterized by increased levels of proclatin in the blood. Normal proclatin levels in women are less than 580 mIU/L, whereas 450 mIU/L is normal for men.
Hyperprolactinaemia Diagnosis
Proclatin blood levels are tested in women with abnormal milk secretions or altered menstrual cycles as well as in men with erectile dysfunctions and sexual difficulties, If proclatin levels are found to be abnormally elevated, a thyroid function test may be done. Often, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is also recommended to detect pituitary tumors. CT scans also provide a reliable image of the pituitary. These imaging tests are geared towards gauging the size of the tumor, identifying defects in surrounding tissues, and gauging the severity of the condition.
Hyperprolactinaemia Symptoms and Signs
Among females, elevated levels of proclatin in the blood result in hypoestrogenism, along with a decrease in menstruation and anovulatory infertility. Affected women may experience a decrease or a total disappearance of their menstruation, or a change in their menstrual cycles. In some cases, females who are not pregnant or nursing may inexplicably start producing breast milk. Some patients report losing interest in sex (lowered libido) or experiencing pain during intercourse due to vaginal dryness. Among men, common signs of hyperprolactinemia are loss of libido, infertility, and erectile dysfunction. Males have no visible indicators like menstrual changes. As a result, they often delay consulting a physician until they start experiencing headaches and eye problems as the enlarged pituitary puts pressure on nearby eye nerves. Additionally, hyperprolactinaemia can develop to osteoporosis as a result of hypoestrogenism,