How is a prolactinoma diagnosed? What tests are carried out?
Diagnostic Tests
The tests used to diagnose a prolactinoma are relatively straightforward and should not
cause you discomfort. They consist of a blood test to check hormone levels and a scan of
the pituitary to detect and measure the size of the tumor. If the blood test shows that
you have an elevated prolactin level, this will be repeated at least once to make sure
it is a true result. At this point, another blood test will normally be used to make
certain your thyroid gland is functioning properly. Your other hormone levels may
also be checked.
Scans
If your prolactin level is high, a scan will be carried out. The type of scan is called
an MRI. It involves lying on a moveable table, which passes into a cylindrical piece of
equipment. You may find this a bit noisy or claustrophobic, but most people are not too
bothered by it. If you suffer from claustrophobia, tell the doctor, who will give you
something to combat this. During the scan, the doctor may inject a special dye into your
arm so that the prolactinoma can be seen more clearly. Very occasionally, people can be
allergic to this injection, so be sure to tell the doctor if you have asthma or any allergies.
Other Tests
If you have any problems with your vision, you will probably be seen by an eye specialist
who will check your eyesight and chart your fields of vision. Sometimes an X-ray scan of
your spine and hips may be recommended to check for osteoporosis. This is a painless test.
