Prolactin, Serum (Plasma) by Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
This test measures the amount of prolactin, a hormone produced by your pituitary gland, in your blood. Prolactin helps regulate breast milk production and influences other bodily functions.
["Prolactin levels can help diagnose hormonal imbalances or conditions affecting your pituitary gland."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 12823-1
- Short code
- Prolactin sp2 p chal SerPl-mCnc
- Synonyms
- Prolactin sp2 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 breast changes, irregular menstrual periods, infertility, or unexplained headaches. It could also be done to check for conditions like hyperprolactinemia, pituitary tumors, or other hormonal 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 test if it involves drawing blood from your arm. Wear a loose shirt for easy access.
What Happens During the Test
A healthcare professional will insert a small needle into a vein in your arm to draw blood. You may feel a slight pinch, but it usually doesn’t cause discomfort. The blood sample is then sent to a lab for testing.
What the Results Mean
Results are compared to a general reference range, but your specific range may vary based on age, sex, and health status. High prolactin levels may indicate conditions like tumors, thyroid issues, or medications affecting hormone balance.
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 symptoms like galactorrhea (milk production outside breastfeeding), menstrual irregularities, or infertility. Low levels may suggest pituitary dysfunction or other hormonal imbalances. Always discuss results with your doctor for personalized interpretation.
Short name
Prolactin Level
Frequently asked questions
How often should I get this test?
What can affect my prolactin test results?
Do I need to avoid anything 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