Macroprolactin

Clinical Use

Use

The Macroprolactin test is used to measure various forms of prolactin in the blood, specifically focusing on the determination of macroprolactin levels. Macroprolactin, a complex form of prolactin, can affect the diagnosis of hyperprolactinemia and needs to be differentiated from monomeric prolactin, which is the bioactive form responsible for clinical symptoms. This test is crucial for patients suspected of high prolactin levels to assure accurate diagnosis and treatment.

Special Instructions

Not provided.

Limitations

This test has not been cleared or approved by the FDA, which might limit its acceptance in certain clinical settings. The result turnaround time can vary if additional confirmatory or reflex tests are required, potentially extending beyond the usual 5 to 10 days.

Test Details

Methodology

Immunoassay (ECLIA)

Biomarkers

Monomeric Prolactin

Analyte

Monomeric Prolactin

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

Percent Macroprolactin

Analyte

Percent Macroprolactin

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

Prolactin

Analyte

Prolactin

Concentration / Level • Quantitative (Continuous) (e.g., copies/mL, % expression)

LOINC Codes

Order Codes

38926-2 - Macroprolactin SerPl-mCnc

Result Codes

2842-3 - Prolactin SerPl-mCnc
42607-2 - Prolactin.monomeric SerPl-mCnc
51441-4 - Macroprolactin/Prolactin MFr SerPl

Result Turnaround Time

5-10 days

Specimen

Serum

Volume

2 mL

Minimum Volume

1 mL

Container

Gel-barrier tube, red-top tube, serum transfer tube

Collection Instructions

Do not draw sample until patient has been awake for at least two hours. Separate serum or plasma from cells within 45 minutes of collection. Transfer specimen to plastic transport tube before freezing.