Prolactinoma is a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland that produces too much prolactin, a hormone that controls milk production in women. Even though it's benign, this tumor can cause noticeable health issues by disrupting your body's hormone balance. Both men and women can develop prolactinomas, but symptoms vary depending on your sex and hormone levels.
Raised prolactin from the tumor mainly affects reproductive functions. Women might notice irregular or missed periods and unexpected milk production, while men could experience decreased libido and sometimes breast enlargement. These symptoms occur because excess prolactin interferes with other hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
Recognizing prolactinoma can be tricky since some symptoms overlap with other conditions. Women may experience infertility or headaches, while men might notice erectile dysfunction or low sperm counts. If the tumor grows larger, it could press on nearby brain areas, causing vision problems or headaches. If any of these issues arise, checking prolactin levels through a blood test is a straightforward way to get a clear picture.
Great news: prolactinomas often respond well to medicines called dopamine agonists. These drugs help shrink the tumor and lower prolactin levels, easing symptoms without surgery. In cases where medication doesn’t work or the tumor is pressing heavily on surrounding brain tissue, surgery or radiation might be needed. Managing prolactinoma is typically a team effort between you and your healthcare provider to find the best approach for your situation.
Living with prolactinoma means regular check-ups and blood tests to track hormone levels and tumor size, but many people lead normal, healthy lives after diagnosis. Understanding your symptoms and treatment options empowers you to manage this condition confidently and stay in control of your health.