What is Prolactin? Prolactin (PRL) is a peptide hormone produced by the anterior pituitary gland, primarily responsible for stimulating milk production (lactation) in women during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It also plays roles in reproductive health, immune regulation, and metabolism. Measuring prolactin levels in the blood is essential for diagnosing conditions such as hyperprolactinemia, pituitary tumors (prolactinomas), infertility, and galactorrhea.
Definition: The Prolactin Unit Converter converts prolactin concentrations between various units, enabling standardization of laboratory results for clinical use.
Purpose: It assists clinicians and researchers in interpreting prolactin levels across different measurement units (e.g., μg/L to mIU/L), ensuring accurate diagnosis and monitoring of pituitary and reproductive disorders.
Converting prolactin concentrations between units is critical for:
Elevated Levels: High prolactin levels (hyperprolactinemia) may indicate prolactinomas, hypothyroidism, medications (e.g., antipsychotics), stress, or pregnancy. Symptoms include galactorrhea, infertility, and menstrual irregularities in women, and decreased libido or erectile dysfunction in men.
Low Levels: Low prolactin levels are rare but may suggest pituitary dysfunction (hypopituitarism) or certain medications. Low levels are typically not clinically significant unless associated with broader pituitary failure.
Normal Ranges:
Interferences:
Q: Why are there different units for prolactin?
A: Different units reflect varying standards; μg/L and mIU/L are commonly used, with mIU/L reflecting international units based on biological activity, while ng/mL is used in some regions.
Q: What is a normal prolactin level?
A: Normal prolactin levels are typically 2–29 ng/mL (43–615 mIU/L or μg/L) for non-pregnant women and 2–18 ng/mL (43–382 mIU/L or μg/L) for men. Consult a healthcare provider for interpretation.
Q: Can this converter be used for other pituitary hormones?
A: No, this converter is specific to prolactin; other pituitary hormones (e.g., ACTH, TSH) have different molecular characteristics and conversion factors—consult a healthcare provider for accuracy.