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Prolactinomas

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 2, 2024.

What is a prolactinoma?

A prolactinoma is a tumor in your pituitary gland. Your pituitary gland makes and releases the hormone prolactin, which helps produce breastmilk. A prolactinoma often decreases estrogen levels in women and testosterone levels in men. Most prolactinomas are not cancerous.

Brain Anatomy

What increases my risk for a prolactinoma?

The cause of a prolactinoma is often unknown. Your risk increases if you take medicines that increase your levels of prolactin. Your risk also increases if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, have hypothyroidism, or previously had a chest injury.

What are the signs and symptoms of a prolactinoma?

Signs and symptoms often occur if your prolactinoma is large and if you have abnormal hormone levels. You may have any of the following:

How is a prolactinoma diagnosed?

How is a prolactinoma treated?

When should I contact my healthcare provider?

When should I seek immediate care or call 911?

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Further information

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