Prolactinoma is the most common tumor of the pituitary gland. Luckily, it is a benign tumor. The pituitary gland releases the hormone prolactin, which is associated with milk production during pregnancy and breast feeding and sexual desire. The tumor causes an over production of this hormone. As the size of the tumor increases, so does the amount of prolactin. Some symptoms of this condition in women may be: loss of menstration, abnormal milk production (w/out pregnancy or breast feeding), decreased sex drive, headaches and change in vission. In men, some symptoms may include: production of milk, decreased sex drive, enlargement of breast tissues (gynecomastica), headache, and visual changes. For diagnosis, a doctor may first request blood tests to check the prolactin levels. Then, if prolactinoma is still an option a MRI would be the next or best step to visualize the tumor. A CT is also an option. The primary treatment for this condition is drugs such as bromocriptine, pergolide, and cabergoline to help reduce and balance out the levels of prolactin. If this has no affect on the tumor, or the patient does not get better, then surgery may be neccessary. Prolactinomas are more common in women than men and in people under the age of 40.
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