Alternative Names & Classifications:
Prolactin-Producing Tumor (CLINICAL), Prolactinoma (CLINICAL)
Description
A prolactinoma is the most common type of functioning pituitary adenoma, consisting of mutated lactotroph cells that autonomously secrete vast amounts of prolactin. The excessively high prolactin levels strongly suppress the brain's secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone, thereby shutting down the normal production of sex hormones (estrogen and testosterone). It most frequently presents in women of reproductive age but can affect men as well.