Serum Prolactin Level Measured by Immunoassay Following a Triple-Bolus Stimulation Protocol
This test measures your prolactin hormone levels after a specific stimulation procedure to help diagnose conditions affecting hormone production or function.
["A triple-bolus test helps assess how your body responds to hormone stimulation, useful for conditions like pituitary disorders or hyperprolactinemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 40333-7
- Short code
- Prolactin 1h p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin 1h p Triple Bolus SerPl-mCnc
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 0.8
- Ref high
- 1.2
- Critical range
- — – 5 N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- CPT
- 85610
- SNOMED
- 396252006
- 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 Is Done
Your doctor may order this test if you have symptoms like unexplained infertility, menstrual irregularities, headaches, or signs of a pituitary tumor. It’s also used to evaluate conditions like hyperprolactinemia or to monitor treatment for hormone-related disorders.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely be asked to fast for a few hours before the test. Bring any medications you’re currently taking, as some may affect results. Avoid caffeine or smoking before the procedure.
The Testing Process
Blood will be drawn from a vein in your arm after the triple-bolus injection of a stimulating agent. You may feel slight discomfort, but it’s usually brief. The blood samples are processed to measure prolactin levels at different time points.
What the Results Mean
Results help determine if your prolactin levels are elevated or appropriately suppressed after stimulation. Abnormal results may indicate issues with your pituitary gland or other hormonal imbalances.
Reference range
INR: 0.8-1.2 (warfarin: 2.0-3.0)N/A
Inform your healthcare provider if you are taking blood thinners. No special preparation required.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
High prolactin levels can cause infertility, menstrual problems, or galactorrhea (milk production outside of pregnancy). Low levels may suggest pituitary dysfunction or other endocrine disorders. This test helps guide treatment options, such as medication or surgery, if needed.
Short name
Prolactin (Triple-Bolus Stimulation)
Frequently asked questions
How long does the triple-bolus test take to complete?
What should I do if I miss any doses of my medications before the test?
Can I drink water before the blood draw?
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