الفهرس 
Pathophysiology
Extrapituitary prolactinOnly 14 pages are availabe for public view
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Abstract
Prolactin is a polypeptide hormone secreted from lactotrophs of the anterior lobe of pituitary gland. Prolactin secretion is mainly under the inhibitory effect of dopamine.Prolactin is essential for mammary gland development &milk production, also it inhibits reproductive functions .Several physiological, pathological and pharmacological factors can contribute to hyperprolactinemia.Hyperprolactinemia usually manifested by menstrual irregularities, sexual dysfunction, galactorrhea and osteopenia. Hyperprolactinemia is diagnosed when serum prolactin concentration is more than 20-25 ng/ml (400-500mu/l). Magnetic resonant imaging (MRI) with gadolinium enhancement provides the best visualization of the sella tursica especially if there is microadenoma .Medical treatment of hyperprolactinemia with dopamine agonist drugs is widely recommended as the treatment of choice. Radiation therapy has become popular in the treatment of pituitary adenomas. Transsphenoidal surgery is now usually reserved for patients who are unresponsive or intolerant to optimal medical therapy.