HISTOLOGIC CRITERIA FOR DETECTION OF PROLACTIN: LACK OF PROLACTIN IN BLOOD AND URINE OF HUMAN SUBJECTS

Abstract

There are two widely used methods for bioassay of prolactin which utilize the response of the pigeon's cropsac. In the systemic method (1, 2) prolactin is injected subcutaneously or intramuscularly into the pectoral region of the pigeon. In the local method (3–6) prolactin is injected intradermally over the cropsac. Both of these methods have provided useful and reliable data when applied to studies of anterior pituitary preparations. On the other hand, assays for prolactin in human urine and serum, chiefly by the local assay method, have yielded conflicting results.