Serum prolactin levels in men during retropubic prostatectomy

Area of Science:

• Urology
• Endocrinology
• Surgical Science

Background:

• Benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) is a common condition in aging men.
• Surgical intervention, such as retropubic prostatectomy, is frequently required for symptomatic BPH.
• The role of hormones, including prolactin, in prostate tissue is not fully elucidated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate serum prolactin level changes during retropubic prostatectomy for BPH.
• To explore the potential for prostatic tissue to release prolactin into circulation.

Main Methods:

• Serum prolactin levels were measured in 31 patients before and during retropubic prostatectomy.
• Epidural anesthesia was utilized for all procedures.
• Prostatectomy involved the surgical removal of prostate tissue.

Main Results:

• A statistically significant increase in serum prolactin was observed during the operation.
• Prolactin levels rose notably after prostate removal compared to pre-removal levels.
• The findings indicate a correlation between prostate manipulation/removal and elevated prolactin.

Conclusions:

• Prostatic tissue appears to contain high concentrations of prolactin.
• The surgical manipulation and removal of the prostate during retropubic prostatectomy can lead to prolactin release into the bloodstream.
• These findings contribute to understanding the endocrine activity of prostate tissue.