Prolactin by High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) from Serum/Plasma
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. Prolactin helps regulate breast milk production and affects other body functions like reproduction and metabolism.
["Prolactin helps regulate breast milk and reproductive health; abnormal levels may signal conditions needing medical evaluation."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 21381-9
- Short code
- Prolactin 1.5h p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 1.5h 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 This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like unexplained breast milk production (galactorrhea), irregular menstrual periods, infertility, headaches, or signs of hormonal imbalances. It could also be part of an evaluation for conditions like pituitary tumors or thyroid disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is needed, but you may be asked to fast for 8–12 hours before the blood draw if instructed. Wear comfortable clothing and plan to rest after the test. Avoid smoking or caffeine before the draw if advised.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to collect blood. You may feel a brief pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause pain. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for analysis using HPLC to measure prolactin levels accurately.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to standard reference ranges for your age and sex. High prolactin levels may indicate conditions like pituitary tumors, thyroid issues, or certain medications. Low levels might suggest rare hormonal deficiencies or medical conditions.
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 can cause hormonal imbalances, affecting fertility, menstrual cycles, and breast tissue. Persistently low levels are less common but may signal underlying health concerns that require further evaluation. Always discuss results with your provider for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Prolactin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often can I expect this test?
What can affect my prolactin levels?
Do I need to take any special steps after the test?
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