4 hours
Test Updated:
ProCT
PCT
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Test Overview
Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA). Two-step immunoassay sandwich method with chemiluminescent detection.
Differentiation of bacterial versus viral respiratory tract infection; determination of treatment duration in respiratory tract infection s; diagnosis and monitoring of sepsis and septic shock; monitoring response to antibacterial therapy; diagnosis of systemic secondary infection post-surgery; diagnosis of other acute bacterial infections with systemic manifestations. Decisions regarding antimicrobial therapy should NOT be based solely on procalcitonin levels.
PCT < 0.10 ng/mL = Negative. PCT between 0.10 and 0.25 ng/mL = Low; bacterial infection is possible but unlikely. PCT between 0.25 and 0.50 ng/mL = Intermediate; bacterial infection is likely. PCT > 0.50 ng/mL = High; bacterial infection is very likely. Test result will be flagged abnormal > 0.25 ng/mL. If Negative, repeat 6-12 hours. Repeat once per day thereafter.
* Reference ranges may change over time. Please refer to the original patient report when evaluating results.
Specimen Requirements
Collect specimen in an SST tube.
Collect specimen in an SST tube. Centrifuge, aliquot serum into a plastic vial and refrigerate.
