Endocrine function following complex partial seizures

Previous studies have demonstrated hyperprolactinemia following generalized tonic-clonic seizures and after electroconvulsive therapy. We found transient hyperprolactinemia following complex partial seizures but little change in serum gonadotropins, thyroid-stimulating hormone, growth hormone, or cortisol. Serum prolactin was invariably normal interictally. Postictal elevation of serum prolactin may represent a biochemical marker of complex partial seizures, and it offers a potential pathogenic mechanism for the sexual dysfunction that often complicates temporal lobe epilepsy.