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Establishment of reference values for endocrine tests. II: Hyperprolactinemia.
R Le Moli1, E Endert, E Fliers
1Department of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Academic Medical Center of the University of Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
The Netherlands Journal of Medicine
|September 4, 1999
Summary
This study establishes reference values for plasma prolactin (PRL) levels and their response to thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation. These findings aid in differentiating prolactinoma from other hyperprolactinemia causes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Clinical Chemistry
- Diagnostic Medicine
Background:
- The thyrotropin-releasing hormone (TRH) stimulation test is crucial for diagnosing prolactinoma in patients with hyperprolactinemia.
- Establishing reliable reference values for plasma prolactin (PRL) and its response to TRH is essential for accurate clinical interpretation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To establish reference values for basal and TRH-stimulated plasma prolactin (PRL) concentrations.
- To provide data supporting the diagnostic utility of the TRH stimulation test in hyperprolactinemia.
Main Methods:
- Fifty healthy subjects (20-69 years, balanced sex distribution) were recruited.
- Basal and TRH-stimulated (400 µg i.v.) plasma PRL levels were measured using a fluoroimmunometric assay.
- Reference values were determined as the observed range in the study population.
Main Results:
- Plasma PRL reference ranges were established for men and women.
- TRH stimulation resulted in a higher median peak PRL concentration in women compared to men.
- A significant proportion of subjects (24%) exhibited a relative PRL increase below the traditional 250% cutoff.
- Liquorice consumption was associated with lower basal and stimulated PRL levels.
Conclusions:
- The study successfully provides reference values for basal and TRH-stimulated plasma PRL.
- These reference values are valuable for the clinical assessment of hyperprolactinemia and prolactinoma diagnosis.