Macroprolactin

Product detailed description

The blood macroprolactin test is used to provide a more accurate assessment of elevated prolactin levels. Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland and plays an important role in reproductive function and breast milk production.

When prolactin levels are elevated, part of the measured value may be due to so-called macroprolactin – a higher-molecular-weight form of prolactin that usually has lower biological activity. Its presence can therefore lead to an elevated laboratory prolactin result without necessarily reflecting a true hormonal excess.

Macroprolactin testing is particularly useful in cases of hyperprolactinemia, especially when typical symptoms are absent, such as menstrual cycle disorders, fertility problems, decreased libido, erectile dysfunction, or spontaneous breast milk production. The test helps distinguish a biologically significant increase in prolactin from an elevation caused mainly by macroprolactin and can contribute to a more accurate diagnostic approach.