Pro Calcitonin

Pathology category

Biochemistry - referred tests

Code

PCT

Referral code

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Test information

Only available for inpatients.Procalcitonin is involved in maintaining calcium levels in the blood and is an indirect biomarker of infection. It is released into the circulation in response to pro-inflammatory stimuli, especially those originating from bacteria. Procalcitonin levels are usually low in people with viral infections, chronic inflammatory disorders or autoimmune processes.Procalcitonin is released into the bloodstream when there is a bacterial infection in the body and high levels can show that a person has a serious bacterial infection. Procalcitonin tests measure the amount of procalcitonin in the blood, and the results can help doctors to diagnose bacterial infection and decide about starting or stopping antibiotic treatment.PCT levels can be increased in certain situations without infectious origin. These include, but are not limited to:▪ Prolonged or severe cardiogenic shock▪ Prolonged severe organ perfusion anomalies▪ Small cell lung cancer or medullary C‑cell carcinoma of the thyroid▪ Early after major trauma, major surgical intervention, severe burns▪ Treatments which stimulate the release of pro‑inflammatory cytokines▪ Neonates (< 48 h after birth)For diagnostic purposes, the results should always be assessed in conjunction with the patient’s medical history, clinical examination and other findings.

Guidelines

Pre-analytical

Only available for inpatients.Samples must be analysed within 24hrs. Addon testing is not available

Reference range

< 0.05 ng/mL

Tube type

Tube type info

Serum separating tube (Gold top)

Special requirements

Minimum volume

1ml

Assay frequency

TAT Inpatient (urgent)

4hrs

TAT Inpatient

4hrs

TAT GP/Outpatient

Not available

Referral lab