The Prolactinoma Problem

Abstract

The secretion of prolactin is tonically inhibited by the hypothalamus, an effect mediated by the release of a prolactin inhibitory factor into the pituitary blood supply.¹ Much newly acquired evidence points to dopamine as the principal inhibitory regulator.² Specific dopamine-containing nerve tracts in the hypothalamus terminate on the blood vessels destined to reach the pituitary, dopamine has been identified in the blood draining the hypothalamus, dopamine receptors have been demonstrated on pituitary cells, and when applied directly to the pituitary, dopamine is highly potent in inhibiting prolactin release. The clinical importance of the dopamine receptor in regulating prolactin secretion is . . .