[Induced and spontaneous prolactin secretion in young, obese women]

Prolactin reactions in response to insulin hypoglycemia and prolactin levels were examined in 20 obese women of reproductive age at various time of the day. In one group prolactin response to stimulation with insulin hypoglycemia was normal, in another group an increase in the level of prolactin was unnoticed. Both groups were compared with healthy controls. Two types of obesity (upper and lower) were investigated. A conclusion has been made that the absence of prolactin reaction in response to insulin hypoglycemia and an insufficient rise of prolactin at night are noted more frequently in women with upper type of obesity suggesting more profound endocrine derangements in them as compared to women with lower type obesity.