Abstract: Serum prolactin level in healthy Sudanese subjectss

Authors

Ammar Mohammed Elamin Hassan, MSc*, Rukhsana Ahsan, PhD**,
Nagi Ibrahim Ali, MSc*, Amal Mahmoud Saeed, PhD ***
Radiology Institute, Sudan Atomic Energy Commission Khartoum Sudan*
Diagnostic Healthcare, London. U. K.**
Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Khartoum, Sudan***

Background
Prolactin (PRL) level is commonly estimated in patients with amenorrhoea, infertility and suspected hyperprolactinemia. Only one study that included 15 Sudanese females was done in Sudan to establish a normal level of PRL in Sudanese subjects.
The objectives of the study were:
1. To develop a local antibody for PRL to be used in PRL radio-immunoassay (RIA) to reduce the cost of the investigation.
2. To determine normal PRL level in Sudanese females and males

Methods
Prolactin was determined in one hundred normal Sudanese males and one hundred females using the Chinese Radio Immunoassay kit with the locally produced Donkey Anti Rabbit’s Sera (Sud-DARS) as separating agent.
 

Results
PRL level in normal Sudanese males was found to be 236±81 mIU/L (mean±SD). In Sudanese females the PRL level in preovulatory phase was found to be 258±78 mIU/L while in postovulatory phase was found to be equal to 278±82 mIU/L. Ovulation was confirmed by measurement of progesterone levels seven days before the next suspected menstruation.
 

Conclusion
Prolactin level in normal Sudanese females and males were reported. This level was similar to levels reported in the literature.

Keywords: amenorrhoea, ovulation, pituitary, dopamine