Procalcitonin PCT Test

Here are some reasons why a Procalcitonin Serum Test may be done:

1. To differentiate between bacterial and viral infections: Procalcitonin levels tend to be higher in bacterial infections, making the test helpful in distinguishing between bacterial and viral infections.
2. To aid in the diagnosis of sepsis: Procalcitonin levels can be an indicator of sepsis, a potentially life-threatening condition that occurs when the body's response to an infection triggers widespread inflammation.
3. To monitor the effectiveness of antibiotic therapy: Procalcitonin levels can be used to assess whether antibiotic therapy is working, as levels tend to decrease as the infection resolves.
4. To guide antibiotic prescribing: In cases where the cause of infection is unclear, a Procalcitonin Serum Test may help guide antibiotic prescribing decisions, as higher levels may indicate a bacterial infection that requires antibiotic treatment.
5. To monitor critically ill patients: Procalcitonin levels can be useful in monitoring critically ill patients, as changes in levels may indicate the presence or progression of infection.

Your doctor may recommend Procalcitonin test for you if you show signs of  systemic or severe bacterial infection and/or sepsis.

Procalcitonin is a substance produced by many types of cells in the body, often in response to bacterial infections and also in case of tissue injury. The level of procalcitonin in the blood can increase significantly in case of systemic bacterial infections and sepsis. Procalcitonin test measures procalcitonin levels in the blood.

The Procalcitonin (PCT) Serum test is a blood test that measures the level of procalcitonin in the bloodstream.

Abnormal results on a procalcitonin serum test may indicate a bacterial infection or sepsis. A high PCT level is typically indicative of a bacterial infection, while a low PCT level suggests a viral or non-infectious condition. In general, higher PCT levels indicate a higher risk of sepsis and a greater need for aggressive treatment with antibiotics.

During the Procalcitonin test, a healthcare professional will clean the area on your arm where the blood will be drawn and use a needle to collect a sample of your blood. You may feel a slight pinch or prick when the needle is inserted, but the procedure is generally quick and relatively painless.

No special precautions are required for undertaking Procalcitonin test. It is always a good idea to inform your healthcare provider about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may affect the test results. Always follow any instructions given by your doctor or healthcare provider.

The Procalcitonin test is generally recommended for people who have symptoms of a bacterial infection, such as:

• Fever
• Chills
• Body aches and pains
• Cough
• Shortness of breath
• Sore throat
• Urinary tract infection
• Pneumonia

The Procalcitonin Serum test may also be recommended for people who have a high risk of developing a bacterial infection, such as those who:

• Have a weakened immune system
• Have recently undergone surgery or a medical procedure
• Have a history of recurrent infections

Procalcitonin serum test is usually ordered along with:

1. Complete blood count (CBC) with differential: It can help diagnose anemia, infections, and other blood disorders.
2. Blood culture: This test is used to detect bacteria or fungi in the blood.
3. C-reactive protein (CRP): It is often ordered along with the procalcitonin test to help diagnose and monitor infections.
4. Urinalysis: It may be ordered when a person has symptoms of a urinary tract infection.
5. Blood chemistry tests: These tests measure various chemicals and electrolytes in the blood, such as glucose, sodium, and potassium. They can help diagnose and monitor conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and electrolyte imbalances.

• PCT test
• Procalcitonin blood test