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Test Code PRL PROLACTIN

Important Note

24 hours before this blood test: Do not take any supplements containing biotin or Vitamin B7 which are commonly found in hair, skin, and nail supplements, and multi-vitamins.

Sufficient Biotin concentrations in serum can lead to falsely decreased results.

Methodology

Chemiluminescent Immunometric Assay

Useful in the evaluation of pituitary tumors, amenorrhea, galactorrhea, infertility, and hypogonadism. Also useful for monitoring therapy of prolactin-producing tumors.

Specimen Requirements

 

Submit only 1 of the following specimens:

 

Preferred:

Serum

Serum Gel Tube

Container/Tube: Serum gel tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of serum

Collection Instructions: Draw blood after patient has been awake for 3 to 4 hours. Spin down within 4 hours of draw.

Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).

 

Alternate:

Serum

Plain, Red-Top Tube

Container/Tube: Plain, red-top tube(s)
Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of serum

Collection Instructions: Draw blood after patient has been awake for 3 to 4 hours. Spin down within 4 hours of draw.

Note: Label specimen appropriately (serum).

 

Alternate:

Plasma

Container/Tube: Green-top (lithium heparin) tube(s)

Specimen Volume: 1 mL (minimum volume: 0.5 mL) of plasma

Collection Instructions: Draw blood after patient has been awake for 3 to 4 hours. Spin down within 4 hours of draw.

Note: Label specimen appropriately (plasma).

Day(s) Test Set Up

Monday through Friday

Reference Values

Males: 4-18 ng/mL

Females (nonpregnant): 3-19 ng/mL

Performing Laboratory

Logan Health Medical Center-Chemistry

Test Classification and CPT Coding

84146

Specimen Transport Temperature

Refrigerate