Serum Prolactin Level (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. Prolactin helps regulate milk production and influences other bodily functions.
["Prolactin levels can signal potential hormonal imbalances or conditions affecting your reproductive or metabolic health."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12832-2
- Short code
- Prolactin 10M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 10M p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 2
- Ref high
- 18
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 84146
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why Is This Test Done?
Your healthcare provider may order this test to investigate symptoms like unexplained breast milk production in men, infertility, irregular menstrual cycles, headaches, or galactorrhea (milk discharge from nipples). It can also help diagnose conditions such as pituitary tumors or hyperprolactinemia.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is usually needed. You may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the test if your lab requires it, but always confirm with your provider. Wear comfortable clothing for easy blood draw access.
What Happens During the Test?
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm using a small needle. You may feel a brief pinch, but the process is quick. The blood sample is then sent to the lab for analysis.
What Are Possible Results?
Results are reported in micrograms per deciliter (µg/dL). High or low levels may indicate underlying health concerns, but interpretation depends on your symptoms and medical history.
Reference range
Adult males: 2-18 ng/mL; Females: 2-29 ng/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Elevated prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) can result from pituitary tumors, medications (e.g., antidepressants, antipsychotics), thyroid disorders, or kidney disease. Low levels may suggest pituitary dysfunction or other hormonal imbalances. Regular monitoring is important for managing conditions like infertility or galactorrhea.
Short name
Prolactin
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take to get results?
Can diet or medications affect prolactin test results?
Is this test painful?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy