Abstract
This case describes a woman with galactorrhoea associated with hyperprolactinaemia. Although there are many physiological, pathological and pharmacological causes of hyperprolactinaemia, many of these can be excluded following a detailed history and physical examination.
Key Points
- In women with galactorrhoea and a mildly elevated serum prolactin level, a history of normal menstruation indicates that a clinically significant pituitary tumour is unlikely.
- Pituitary MRI and complete pituitary function tests do not need to be routinely performed in this situation.
- Hyperprolactinaemia is present in less than 50% of women with galactorrhoea and normal menstruation.
- Many causes of hyperprolactinaemia can be excluded following a detailed history and physical examination.
