Prolactin Cells of the Human Pituitary Gland in Old Age

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Abstract
Pituitary glands obtained at autopsy from 20 male and 20 female subjects, over 80 years of age, have been investigated with various staining procedures, including the immunoperoxidase technique for the cytological localization of prolactin. Prolactin cells were numerous and well developed in the anterior lobes. The incidence, distribution, granulation and immunoreactivity of prolactin cells showed no apparent difference between old male and female subjects dying of acute or chronic illnesses. It can be concluded that prolactin cells do not regress in old age. The morphologic findings are consistent with the assumption that the pituitary gland is capable of secreting prolactin in aging subjects.