** Prolactin is a hormone released by the pituitary gland.It contributes to the increased growth and differentiation of the alveoli, and also influences differentiation of ductal structures. During lactation, prolactin is the main factor maintaining tight junctions of the ductal epithelium and regulating milk production through osmotic balance. The prolactin test measures the amount of prolactin in the blood. ** ** The normal values for prolactin are: Males: 2 - 18 ng/mL Nonpregnant females: 2 - 29 ng/mL Pregnant women: 10 - 209 ng/mL The examples above are common measurements for results for these tests. Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Some lab use different measurements or may test different specimens.Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results. Note: ng/mL = nanograms per milliliter ** ** The following can temporarily increase prolactin levels: -Emotional or physical stress (occasionally only) -High-protein meals -Intense breast stimulation -Recent breast exam -Recent exercise ** You may check the following for further information nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003718.htm
Posted on: Thu, 27 Jun 2013 07:18:00 +0000
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