A simple rapid method for prolactin assay by reversed passive hemagglutination: evaluation of its clinical application

Abstract

Measurement of the serum prolactin (PRL) level is essential in diagnosis and treatment of infertile women. At present, the serum PRL level is generally measured routinely by a radioimmunoassay (RIA) technique, but this assay requires a qualified technician and special equipment. Here we report a semi-quantitive method for PRL assay (MS-8701 kit) by reversed passive hemagglutination (R-PHA) using monoclonal PRL antibody. This assay with the MS-8701 kit is specific, and its sensitivity is 1 ng/ml. The serum PRL levels determined with the MS-8701 kit were significantly correlated with those determined by RIA (correlation coefficient 0.932). Furthermore, the effect of bromocriptine on the serum PRL level in patients with prolactinoma, and the change in the serum PRL level after metoclopramide loading could be determined using this kit. These results suggest that the MS-8701 kit should be useful in an out-patient clinic to screen for hyperprolactinemia, to check the effect of bromocriptine, and to follow up patients after operation for prolactinoma.