Hyperprolactinaemia in males

Background: The literature suggests that men with prolactinomas typically present with pressure effects of large pituitary tumours and/or the clinical features of hypogonadism. A definitive study of the clinical features of hyperprolactinaemia in males is, however, lacking.

Aims: To identify the clinical, biochemical and radiological features of hyperprolactinaemia in males.

Methods: Retrospective review of tlie case notes of 53 adult males with prolactinoma or idiopathic hyperprolactinaemia diagnosed 1980–1995.

Results: The mean age of the patients was 41 years (range 19–75). The presenting symptom was endocrine in nature in 57% of patients (loss of libido/potency 47%, gynaecomastia 6%, galactorrhoea 2%, sparse beard growth 2%), pressure effects of pituitary tumour in 28% (headache 13%, visual loss 13%, diplopia 2%), while 15% of patients presented incidentally. On physical examination, galactorrhoea was present in 8% of patients, gynaecomastia in 23