Related Experiment Videos
Prolactin secretion is increased in patients with multiple sclerosis.
1Department of Internal Medicine, American University Hospital-Medical Center, New York, NY 10022, USA.
Endocrine Research
|June 26, 1999
Summary
Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibit elevated prolactin secretion, particularly after TRH stimulation. These findings in MS patients align with animal studies, suggesting prolactin
Area of Science:
- Neuroimmunology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Experimental allergic encephalomyelitis (EAE), an animal model for multiple sclerosis (MS), shows elevated prolactin levels and therapeutic effects of bromocriptine.
- Previous research indicates a potential link between prolactin and MS pathogenesis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate whether patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) exhibit signs of hyperprolactinemia.
- To compare prolactin secretion in MS patients versus healthy controls.
Main Methods:
- A study involving twelve MS patients and twelve healthy controls.
- Measurement of prolactin levels at baseline and after thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation.
- Statistical analysis to compare prolactin levels between the two groups.
Main Results:
- MS patients showed slightly elevated baseline prolactin levels compared to controls (P=0.042), though within the normal range.
- Significantly higher prolactin levels were observed in MS patients post-TRH stimulation (peak P=0.006, area under curve P=0.030).
Conclusions:
- The findings suggest that individuals with MS may have an altered prolactin secretory response.
- These results are consistent with animal studies and implicate prolactin in the immune mechanisms of MS.