ESPE Abstracts

Background: Despite many similarities between the structure, receptors and proliferative and growth promoting actions, the interrelationship between PRL and GH in clinical conditions has received little attention.

Aim: To determine the PRL response to GH stimulation tests.

Subjects: Prepubertal and early pubertal boys (n=581) and girls (n=502) with short stature.

Methods: Data was retrieved from the computerized records of the Endocrine Laboratory. Peak GH and PRL levels during GH stimulation tests with glucagon (Gluc), clonidine (Clon) and clonidine with arginine (Clon+Arg), were determined by radioimmunoassay. Statistical analysis was performed by ANOVA with repeated measurements.

Results: The comparative values of peak GH and PRL (mean ng/l ± SD) are shown in the Table.

Whereas Gluc stimulated both GH and PRL to similar levels, Clon alone or combined with Arg suppressed PRL secretion (P<<0.0001). It is also evident that in both boys and girls, Clon±Arg are superior to Gluc in GH stimulation. The higher GH levels during Clon+Arg can be attributed to the pubertal stage.

Conclusion: Our study helps to select the appropriate PRL function test in relation to GH.

Ref:

Laron Z. The Growth Hormone - Prolactin Relationship: A Neglected Issue. Pediat Endocrinol Rev 2011; 9:546-8