Disorders of prolactin secretion.

Abstract

The mechanism of control of prolactin secretion and its secretory pattern in humans at various stages of life are summarized. The clinical significance and causes of hyperprolactinemia and its occurrence in men its connection with pituitary tumors its treatment and the mechanism of hypogonadism in hyperprolactinemia are also discussed. The hypothalamus controls prolactin secretion by secreting dopamine a prolactin release-inhibiting factor that is carried to the anterior pituitary. Prolactin is secreted in a pulsatile pattern. Hyperprolactinemia occurs naturally in postpartum amenorrhea and as a cause of gonadal dysfunction mostly in women but also in men. It can be caused by drugs that raise prolactin levels pituitary tumors and possible oral contraceptives. It has been treated successfully in women and men with an ergot alkaloid bromocriptine.