What is galactorrhea? Do most patients with prolactin-secreting tumors present with this symptom?
Galactorrhea is the discharge of milk from the breast not associated with pregnancy or lactation. Although a typical symptom of prolactin-secreting tumors, it may be absent in up to 50% of women, particularly when estrogen levels are very low. Galactorrhea is uncommon in men but may be seen in conjunction with gynecomastia when decreased gonadal function results in a low ratio of testosterone to estrogen.
