What is prolactinoma?
Prolactinoma is a noncancerous tumor of the pituitary gland. This tumor causes the pituitary gland to make too much of a hormone called prolactin. The major effect of a prolactinoma is decreased levels of some sex hormones — namely, estrogen and testosterone.
A prolactinoma isn't life-threatening. But it can cause vision difficulties, infertility and other problems.
A prolactinoma can usually be treated with medications to bring the prolactin level down into the standard range and shrink the tumor. In some cases, surgery to remove the tumor might be an option.
In females, prolactinoma can cause:
- Irregular menstrual periods or no menstrual periods
- Milky discharge from the breasts when not pregnant or breastfeeding
- Painful intercourse due to vaginal dryness
- Acne and excessive body and facial hair growth
In males, prolactinoma can cause:
- Erectile dysfunction
- Decreased body and facial hair
- Smaller muscles
- Enlarged breasts
In both females and males, prolactinoma can cause:
- Infertility
- Weak and brittle bones that break easily (osteoporosis)
- Loss of interest in sexual activity
Source:
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prolactinoma/symptoms-causes/syc-
20376958
