[The value of plasma prolactin level determination in the diagnosis of postmenopausal osteoporosis].

Anovulation condition (estrogen deficiency due to high prolactin level) is linked with premature loss of bone mass. Bone mineral density was measured in the femur neck and the lumbar spine (L2-L4) with DEXA and the bone density was given by Z-score, which makes comparison to adult women's bone mass (normal reference). The examinations were carried out in two different groups. Bone mineral density was measured in the first group in 14 cases with hyperprolactinemic anovulation (aged 28 to 36 years). The average value of Z-score was -1.148 +/- 0.68. In the second group 39 patients (51.9 +/- 2.3 years) took part in the investigation within one year after menopause and the measured Z-score was less than -1.0 (-1.98 +/- 0.4). In the control group there were 40 postmenopausal patients (52.2 +/- 2.4 years) and their Z-score was more than -1.0 (-0.21 +/- 0.14). Prolactin value was 416 +/- 98 mU/l in the investigated group, while in the control group it was 238 +/- 76 mU/l (p < or = 0.05). Our results suggest that continuation of the antiprolactinemic (bromocryptine) treatment following completion of child-bearing appears to be indicated in premenopausal women with increased levels of serum prolactin. During the perimenopause endangered group, whose risk is increasing for postmenopausal osteoporosis, can be stated by determining prolactin level.