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Related Experiment Videos

Hyperprolactinaemia and impotence.

S Franks, H S Jacobs, N Martin

    Clinical Endocrinology
    |April 1, 1978
    PubMed
    Summary
    This summary is machine-generated.

    High prolactin levels from pituitary tumors in men cause impotence and low testosterone. Treatment lowering prolactin restored sexual function and hormone levels, indicating a prolactin-mediated effect on the hypothalamus-pituitary axis.

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    Area of Science:

    • Endocrinology
    • Neuroendocrinology
    • Reproductive Medicine

    Background:

    • Pituitary tumors can cause hormonal imbalances.
    • Elevated prolactin (hyperprolactinemia) is a common pituitary tumor complication.
    • Hyperprolactinemia is associated with hypogonadism and sexual dysfunction in men.

    Purpose of the Study:

    • To investigate the clinical, laboratory, and radiological findings in men with pituitary tumors and elevated serum prolactin.
    • To assess the relationship between prolactin levels, hypogonadism, and sexual function.
    • To evaluate the effects of pituitary ablative therapy on hormonal profiles and sexual function.

    Main Methods:

    • Clinical evaluation of 29 men with pituitary tumors and hyperprolactinemia.
    • Laboratory tests including serum prolactin, testosterone, LH, FSH, estradiol, and estrone.

    Related Experiment Videos

  • Radiological assessment including lumbar airencephalography.
  • Assessment of sexual function (libido and potency) and physical signs of hypogonadism.
  • Study of patients before and/or after pituitary ablative therapy (surgery, bromocriptine).

    • Main Results:

    • 17 men reported complete lack of libido and impotence; 6 had impaired sexual function.
    • Impotent men had higher prolactin and lower testosterone levels compared to potent men.
    • Serum LH, FSH, estradiol, and estrone levels were generally normal and did not differ between groups.
    • Successful lowering of prolactin normalized testosterone and restored sexual potency.
    • Failure to lower prolactin resulted in persistent impotence and hypogonadism.

    Conclusions:

    • Hyperprolactinemia in men with pituitary tumors is strongly associated with hypogonadism and sexual dysfunction.
    • The observed hypogonadism appears to be a prolactin-mediated disturbance of hypothalamic-pituitary function.
    • Treatment aimed at lowering prolactin levels is effective in restoring gonadal function and sexual potency.