A-057 Cerebrospinal Fluid Prolactin in Patients with Neurological Disorders

Abstract

Abstract Introduction Prolactin a 23 kDa glycoprotein produced by the anterior pituitary among other cells with possible immunological properties. The presence and significance of prolactin in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is not widely known. This study examined prolactin levels in CSF from patients being investigated for neurological disorders. Methods CSF samples (leftover) from patients being investigated for neuropathy were obtained and stored at 4 °C or at −20 °C if not analyzed within one week of collection. Prolactin levels were measured using a high sensitivity prolactin ELISA (R and D Systems, Inc., MN, USA) according to manufacturer’s instructions. CSF samples reported total protein and glucose levels were obtained and correlated with measured prolactin levels. Statistical analysis were performed using NCSS statistical software. Results A total of 53 CSF (leftover samples) were analyzed for prolactin content. Prolactin was detectable and levels ranged from 2.68 ng/mL to 12.1 ng/mL (mean 4.49 ng/mL). Total protein ranged from 21 mg/dL to 219 mg/dL (mean 67.5 mg/dL). CSF glucose levels ranged from 16 mg/dL to 114 mg/dL (mean 63.9 mg/dL). Although there was poor (r = 0.66) but significant (P < 0.003) correlation between CSF prolactin and total protein levels, there was no correlation (r = −0.1) between CSF prolactin and CSF glucose levels (P = 0.6). Conclusion Prolactin levels was detected in CSF from patients being investigated for neurological dysfunction. There was correlation with total protein and glucose levels. The clinical significance of CSF prolactin is unknown and remains to be elucidated.