Prolactin, Post-Precipitation Serum Mass Concentration
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood after a specific preparation process. Prolactin helps regulate milk production and influences mood, sleep, and reproductive functions.
["Understanding your prolactin levels can help diagnose hormonal imbalances or conditions like hyperprolactinemia."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 56972-3
- Short code
- Prolactin post precipitation SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin post precipitation 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 if you have symptoms such as breast changes, infertility, irregular menstrual periods, headaches, or signs of hormonal imbalances. It may also be used to monitor treatment for conditions like pituitary tumors or certain medications that affect prolactin levels.
What to Expect Before the Test
No special preparation is typically required, but you may need to avoid certain medications or activities for a few days before testing. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.
During the Test
A healthcare professional will draw blood from a vein in your arm. You may feel a slight pinch, but the process is usually quick and not painful. The blood sample is then processed to measure prolactin levels after precipitation.
After the Test
You can resume your normal activities immediately. There may be a small bruise or redness at the injection site, but this usually fades within a day or two.
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.
◆Associated findings1
Short name
Prolactin Post-Precipitation Serum
Frequently asked questions
What causes prolactin levels to be tested?
How long does it take to get results?
Can I eat or drink before this 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