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Bone density in amenorrheic women with and without hyperprolactinemia
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|June 1, 1983
Summary
Prolactin-secreting pituitary tumors may directly impact bone density, independent of amenorrhea. This suggests prolactin (PRL) might directly affect bone, indicating early treatment for these tumors.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
- Pituitary Disorders
Background:
- Hyperprolactinemia is associated with pituitary tumors.
- Amenorrhea can lead to decreased bone density.
- The specific cause of bone density loss in hyperprolactinemic patients is unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if decreased bone density in patients with prolactin (PRL)-secreting pituitary tumors is due to hyperprolactinemia or general amenorrhea.
- To determine the direct effect of PRL on bone mineral content.
Main Methods:
- Bone mineral content of the radius was measured using photon absorptiometry.
- Compared bone density in normal women, women with amenorrhea and normal PRL, and women with PRL-secreting tumors.
- Assessed serum hormone levels including estradiol, gonadotropins, and PRL.
Main Results:
- Bone mineral content was similar in normal women and women with amenorrhea and normal PRL.
- Patients with PRL-secreting tumors showed significantly diminished bone mineral content, regardless of treatment outcome.
- No significant correlation was found between estradiol or PRL levels and bone mineral content in amenorrheic women.
Conclusions:
- Decreased bone mineral content in hyperprolactinemic patients suggests a direct effect of PRL on bone.
- This finding supports early treatment for PRL-secreting pituitary tumors to prevent bone loss.