Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 8, 2026
07:43
Endoscopic Endonasal Trans-sphenoidal Approach: Minimally Invasive Surgery for Pituitary Adenomas
Published on: January 17, 2018
[The diagnostic value of macroprolactin in hyperprolactinemia]
Klinicheskaia Laboratornaia Diagnostika
|December 27, 2007
Summary
Macroprolactinemia, a condition with high prolactin levels but few symptoms, is common. Detecting big big prolactin using PEG is crucial for accurate hyperprolactinemia diagnosis.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Clinical Chemistry
Context:
- Hyperprolactinemia (HP) diagnosis can be challenging due to discrepancies between prolactin (P) levels and clinical presentation.
- Macroprolactinemia (MP) accounts for a significant portion of HP, involving biologically inactive high molecular-weight prolactin.
- The clinical significance of MP, especially when symptoms are mild, requires further elucidation.
Purpose:
- To detect high molecular-weight prolactin (big big P) in patients with hyperprolactinemia of various origins.
- To determine the clinical importance and diagnostic value of big big prolactin in hyperprolactinemia.
- To assess the prevalence of MP in females with elevated prolactin levels.
Summary:
- A study examined 101 females with hyperprolactinemia (prolactin > 700 mU/l).
- Biologically active monomeric prolactin was measured using polyethylene glycol (PEG) 6000 treatment.
- Macroprolactinemia was identified in 23% of patients, with only 11 exhibiting clear clinical symptoms.
Impact:
- Macroprolactinemia is a frequent finding, often presenting with subtle or absent clinical symptoms.
- The determination of big big prolactin using PEG is valuable for diagnosing hyperprolactinemia.
- Routine use of PEG separation is recommended for patients with HP, especially in cases of idiopathic HP or discordant clinical and biochemical findings.
