what is procalcitonin?
Procalcitonin (PCT) is the pepde precursor of calcitonin which is involved in calcium homeostasis. PCT is often produced in response to infecons and ssue injury which can be due to cardiac surgery, severe burns, severe trauma and mul-organ failure. PCT level in the blood can increase significantl in microbial infecons including SARS-CoV2 infecon and sepsis.
A procalcitonin test measures the level of procalcitonin in your blood. A high level could be a sign of a serious bacterial infection, such as sepsis. Sepsis is the body's severe response to infection. Sepsis happens when an infection in one area of your body, such as your skin or urinary tract, spreads into your bloodstream. This triggers an extreme immune reaction. It can cause a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, decreased blood pressure, and other symptoms. Without quick treatment, sepsis can lead to organ failure or even death.
A procalcitonin test can help your health care provider determine if you have sepsis or another serious bacterial infection in the early stages. This may help you get treated promptly and avoid life-threatening complications.
| CODE: | PRCAL |
| UNITS: | ng/mL |
| TECHNOLOGY: | C.L.I.A |
| FASTING TYPE: | NON FASTING |
| SAMPLE TYPE: | SERUM |
| NORMAL RANGE: | < 0.10 |
Tags: PROCALCITONIN TEST Thyrocare, procalcitonin test cost, Procalcitonin to test for Infections
