Precalcitonin (PCT) Test: Introduction, Test Result, Unit, Normal Range, Test Method, and Keynotes

Introduction of Precalcitonin (PCT) Test

A precalcitonin (PCT) test measures the level of blood procalcitonin and it is normally present at a very low level. Our body will release procalcitonin into the bloodstream when there is a serious bacterial infection that acts as an indicator of a serious infection or septicemia (sepsis). Sepsis causes inflammation and blood clots. Delays in treatment can rapidly lead to tissue damage, organ failure, or even death. Infections that lead to sepsis most often start from the lungs, urinary tract, skin, or digestive system. A PCT test can help clinicians to diagnose if the patient has sepsis from a bacterial infection or if he/she has a high risk of developing sepsis. And thus, this assay may help you get the right treatment quickly before the patient’s condition worsens.

Precalcitonin (PCT) Test- Test Result, Unit, Normal Range, and Test Method

Keynotes on Precalcitonin (PCT) Test

• Precalcitonin is an indicator of sepsis and symptoms of sepsis are fever or chills, confusion, sweaty skin, extreme pain, shortness of breath, rapid heartbeat, and low blood pressure. For any of these symptoms, PCT is beneficial.

• The test helps to rule out bacterial infection from other infections as a PCT test can help tell the difference between bacterial (PCT -Positive) and viral pneumonia (Negative).In this scenario, antibiotics may help bacterial infections, but not viral infections.
• The application precalcitonin test are as follows-

1. To diagnose or rule out a bacterial infection or sepsis
2. Finding out the severity of sepsis
3. To make treatment decisions
4. For monitoring prognosis
5. Diagnose kidney infections in children with urinary tract infections (UTIs)

• There is no need for any special preparation for a procalcitonin test. Blood is drawn for this assay just like another routine blood test. e.g. blood sugar test, blood urea test, etc.