Macroprolactin Test
Also known as: Macroprolactin Assay, Prolactin-bound Immunoglobulin Test, Macroprolactin Screening
Macroprolactin Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹28,000. Uses PEG (Polyethylene Glycol Precipitation), ECLIA (Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay) on Serum samples. Results in Report after 2-3 weeks from sample receipt. Sample should be submitted by the 7th of the month for timely processing.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.
🩺 Medically Reviewed By
Dr Ramarao Paidisetty
Consultant Biochemist · Reg: 21504
Last reviewed: September 7, 2026
Overview
The purpose of the Macroprolactin Test is to identify the presence of macroprolactin, which is a bound form of prolactin that can cause falsely elevated prolactin levels. This test helps in diagnosing macroprolactinemia, a condition that mimics hyperprolactinemia but is often asymptomatic and does not require treatment. Accurate diagnosis prevents mismanagement and unnecessary medical interventions, such as inappropriate use of dopamine agonists or invasive procedures.
- Test Code
- 1200
- Price
- ₹28,000
- Sample Type
- Serum
- Result Time
- Report after 2-3 weeks from sample receipt. Sample should be submitted by the 7th of the month for timely processing.
- Fasting Required
- Yes
- Method
- PEG (Polyethylene Glycol Precipitation), ECLIA (Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay)
Sample Collection
Overnight fasting is preferred (8-12 hours). Avoid strenuous activity and stress before the test. Inform your doctor about any medications you are taking. Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory.
Method: Venipuncture
Laboratory Analysis
A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist. The process is quick and typically involves minimal discomfort.
Report Delivery
Apply pressure to the puncture site with a cotton ball to prevent bruising. You can resume normal activities immediately. Keep the bandage on for a few hours.
Timeline: Report after 2-3 weeks from sample receipt. Sample should be submitted by the 7th of the month for timely processing.
Patient Instructions
About This Test
Who Should Get This Test
The purpose of the Macroprolactin Test is to identify the presence of macroprolactin, which is a bound form of prolactin that can cause falsely elevated prolactin levels. This test helps in diagnosing macroprolactinemia, a condition that mimics hyperprolactinemia but is often asymptomatic and does not require treatment. Accurate diagnosis prevents mismanagement and unnecessary medical interventions, such as inappropriate use of dopamine agonists or invasive procedures.
How to Prepare
- Overnight fasting is preferred.
- Duly filled Test Send Out Consent Form (Form 35) is mandatory.
- Sample should be shipped refrigerated or frozen.
- Use a serum separator tube (SST) for collection.
- Avoid hemolysis by proper sample handling.
Doctor's Notes
Reviewed by Dr Ramarao Paidisetty — MBBS, MD (Biochemistry) · Reg. No. 21504
"Macroprolactin testing is crucial for differentiating true hyperprolactinemia from macroprolactinemia, which is often asymptomatic and can lead to unnecessary treatments. Accurate identification helps in avoiding misdiagnosis and guiding appropriate clinical management."
Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026
Test Parameters & Specifications
Sample Stability
- Hemolyzed or lipemic samples
- Inadequate sample volume (<1 mL)
- Missing or incomplete consent form
- Improper labeling or identification
- Samples stored beyond stability limits
Understanding Your Results
Macroprolactin <60% of total prolactin
Normal finding. Elevated total prolactin may indicate true hyperprolactinemia due to other causes such as pituitary tumors or hypothyroidism.
Macroprolactin >60% of total prolactin
Indicates macroprolactinemia. This condition is often benign and asymptomatic, and treatment is usually not required unless symptoms are present.
Borderline results (50-60%)
May require repeat testing or additional clinical evaluation to confirm diagnosis.
Consult an endocrinologist if you experience symptoms like irregular periods, infertility, galactorrhea, or if your test results show elevated macroprolactin levels. Persistent headaches or visual disturbances should also prompt medical evaluation.
Limitations
- ⚠This test does not measure total prolactin; a separate prolactin test may be required for comprehensive evaluation.
- ⚠Results can vary based on the assay method and laboratory standards.
- ⚠False positives or negatives may occur in rare cases due to interfering substances.
- ⚠Interpretation should always be correlated with clinical symptoms and other diagnostic tests.
Risks & Considerations
- ●Minimal risk of bruising or pain at the puncture site
- ●Rare chance of infection or dizziness
- ●No significant risks associated with the test itself
Interfering Factors
- ●Medications that affect prolactin levels (e.g., antipsychotics, antidepressants, estrogens)
- ●Stress, sleep deprivation, or recent breast stimulation
- ●Sample hemolysis, lipemia, or improper handling
- ●Recent physical exercise or nipple stimulation
Compare With Similar Tests
| Test | Macroprolactin Test | Prolactin Test | Thyroid Function Test | MRI Pituitary |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Comparison | Macroprolactin Test |
Frequently Asked Questions
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