Prolactinoma

What is a prolactinoma?

A prolactinoma is a usually benign pituitary tumour that produces excess prolactin.

Is a prolactinoma cancer?

No. Prolactinomas are generally benign pituitary tumours and do not behave like typical cancers.

Can a prolactinoma cause infertility?

Yes. Excess prolactin can interfere with reproductive hormones and ovulation or testosterone production, leading to difficulty conceiving.

Can a prolactinoma cause headaches?

It can. Headache may occur because of the pituitary tumour, although headaches can also have many unrelated causes.

Can a prolactinoma affect vision?

A large pituitary tumour can press on the optic pathways and cause visual field problems, particularly loss of peripheral vision.

How is a prolactinoma diagnosed?

Evaluation usually includes prolactin measurement, assessment for other causes of elevated prolactin and, when appropriate, MRI of the pituitary.

Can prolactinoma be treated without surgery?

Yes. Most prolactinomas are treated medically, commonly with dopamine agonists such as cabergoline.

Will prolactin become normal with treatment?

In many patients, treatment substantially lowers prolactin and can reduce the size of the tumour.

Can I become pregnant after treatment for prolactinoma?

Many women with prolactinomas can conceive after appropriate treatment and restoration of reproductive function. Pregnancy management should be planned with the treating endocrinologist.