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HelpTest Code PRL Prolactin Level
EHR Test Codes
| Test Code | Test Name | |
| Atlas | PRL | Prolactin |
| Cerner | Prolactin Level |
Specimen Requirements
Preparation of Patient:
None
Container Type:
Green Top 5mL Lithium Heparin Separator Tube
Or
Gold Top 6mL SST Gel & Clot Activator Tube
Specimen Type:
Plasma or Serum
Specimen Volume:
2.5 mL Plasma or Serum minimum .5 mL
Specimen Handling/Transport:
Separate plasma or serum from cells within 2 hours of collection.
Transport ambient room temperature.
Specimen Stability/Storage:
1 day refrigerated 2-8°C
>1 day frozen -20°C
Specimen Rejection:
Hemolysis
Performing Laboratory
Munson Medical Center Laboratories
Chemistry Department
Priority, Frequency, & Turnaround
Priority:
Non-Emergent
Frequency:
24 hours 7 days a week
Turnaround:
0 - 1 days
Methodology
Chemiluminescent Immunoassay
Reporting
Reference Range:
Male:
| 0 years to 19 year | 1 - 15 ng/mL |
| 19 years and up | 3 - 13 ng/mL |
Female:
| 0 years to 19 year | 1 - 15 ng/mL |
| 19 years and up | 3 - 27 ng/mL |
Critical Decision:
None
Clinical Significance
Prolactin is produced in the pituitary. Serum levels may be used to help diagnose pituitary dysfunction. The main function of prolactin is to begin and maintain lactation in women. Elevated levels may cause infertility, and may be seen in pregnancy, administration of estrogen or progesterone, or some antihypertensive drugs. Prolactins may provide the first quantitative evidence of pituitary dysfunction.
CPT Code(s)
84146