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Ectopic hyperprolactinemia resulting from an ovarian teratoma
G A Kallenberg1, C M Pesce, B Norman
1Department of Medicine and Health Care Sciences, George Washington University Medical Center, Washington, DC. 20037.
JAMA
|May 9, 1990
Summary
Elevated prolactin levels in women can stem from ovarian teratomas, not just pituitary issues. This case highlights a rare ovarian tumor secreting prolactin, causing hyperprolactinemia.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Gynecology
- Oncology
Background:
- Elevated prolactin levels in nonpregnant patients typically indicate pituitary gland abnormalities.
- Hyperprolactinemia can cause symptoms such as secondary amenorrhea and galactorrhea.
Observation:
- A patient presented with secondary amenorrhea and galactorrhea, initially diagnosed with a pituitary mass.
- Despite successful medical treatment for the pituitary mass, hyperprolactinemia recurred.
- An ovarian teratoma was incidentally discovered and surgically removed.
Findings:
- Pathological evaluation of the ovarian teratoma revealed prolactin-producing tissue.
- Post-surgical removal of the ovarian teratoma, the patient's prolactin levels normalized.
- This case represents the first reported instance of hyperprolactinemia caused by a prolactin-secreting ovarian cystic teratoma.
Implications:
- This case expands the differential diagnosis for hyperprolactinemia in women.
- Ovarian teratomas should be considered in the etiological investigation of unexplained hyperprolactinemia.
- Highlights the importance of thorough gynecological evaluation in persistent hyperprolactinemia.