PROCALCITONIN (PCT) TEST
6,500 Kshs | Home Collection Available
Synonyms
PCT, Inflammation
Purpose
The Procalcitonin (PCT) test measures the level of procalcitonin, a precursor of the hormone calcitonin, in the blood. This biomarker typically increases significantly in response to systemic bacterial infections and sepsis, making it a valuable tool for assessing the severity of infection and guiding antibiotic therapy.
It is used in the early detection of sepsis, antibiotic stewardship, and monitoring response to treatment. Other medical laboratory tests performed alongside include Complete Blood Count (CBC), C-reactive protein (CRP), blood cultures, lactate levels, urinalysis, and chest X-ray.
Patient Preparation
The patient should not be on a biotin supplement for at least 72 hours before the sample collection is done.
Samples
0.8 ml Serum or plasma collected in red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, green-top (lithium heparin) tube, or lavender-top (EDTA) tube. Plasma and serum should be separated and transferred to plastic tubes before freezing. Samples are stable at room temperature for 24 hours, refrigerated for 48 hours, and frozen for 3 months.
Test Method
Chemiluminescent immunoassay (CLIA)
Reference Range
Low risk: <1.00 mg/L
Average risk: 1.00-3.00 mg/L
High risk :> 3.00mg/L
Results Turnaround
Within 24 hours after sample collection.
Diseases / Diagnostic Indicators
The Procalcitonin test helps detect bacterial infections, particularly severe systemic infections such as sepsis and septic shock. Elevated PCT levels are typically associated with bacterial causes rather than viral or inflammatory conditions, making it a key marker for differentiating types of infection.
Here are some possible outcomes of the test;
High PCT levels
Suggest a systemic bacterial infection, such as sepsis, or a localized but serious bacterial infection (e.g., pneumonia, meningitis, or intra-abdominal infections). The higher the level, the greater the likelihood and severity of the infection. It may also indicate a risk for septic shock and require urgent intervention.
Moderately elevated levels
May point to localized bacterial infections or early stages of systemic infection. Clinical correlation and repeat testing are usually recommended.
Low or normal PCT levels
Indicate that a bacterial infection is unlikely, especially if the patient shows no severe symptoms. This outcome may suggest a viral infection, non-infectious inflammation, or that the infection is still in its early phase.
Decreasing levels over time
It can signify a positive response to antibiotic treatment and an improvement in clinical condition. For more on the Procalcitonin (PCT) test, read this study.