Prolactinoma is a benign tumor located in the pituitary gland, more precisely in the pituitary gland, which causes an increase in the production of prolactin, the hormone responsible for stimulating the mammary glands to produce milk during pregnancy and lactation. Increasing the amount of prolactin characterizes hyperprolactinemia, which can lead to the onset of certain symptoms such as irregular menstruations, lack of menstruation, infertility and impotence, in men.
Prolactinoma can be classified into two types according to their size:
- Diagnosis of prolactinoma is made by measuring prolactin in the blood and the result of imaging tests such as MRI and CT scan.
- Treatment should be recommended by the endocrinologist or neurologist based on tumor characteristics and the use of medications to regulate it.
- Prolactin levels and symptom relief is indicated.
Prolactinoma symptoms are related to more circulating prolactin and there may be:
Although the increase in the amount of prolactin is related to prolactinoma, it can also occur from other situations such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hypothyroidism, stress, during pregnancy and lactation, kidney failure, liver failure or due to certain medications. Learn more about high prolactin.
Diagnosis of prolactinoma is done first by checking the amount of circulating prolactin and values may vary depending on the type of prolactinoma:
In addition to measuring circulating prolactin, your doctor usually indicates CT and MRI scans to check the characteristics of this tumor; Bone densitometry and echocardiography may also be requested to see if there is any damage associated with increased circulating prolactin.
Treatment of prolactinoma involves reducing symptoms and restoring fertility, as well as regulating circulating prolactin levels and controlling tumor growth and development. The first line of treatment indicated by the endocrinologist is with drugs such as bromocriptine and cabergoline.
When prolactin levels are unregulated, your doctor may recommend surgery to remove the tumor. In addition, if the person does not respond to the medication, radiation therapy may be recommended to control the size of the tumor and prevent disease progression.