What is this test?
Procalcitonin is a protein that can be significantly elevated in some systemic bacterial infections and a severe inflammatory response.
Why might it be ordered?
- As additional information when severe bacterial infection or sepsis is suspected.
- To track change over time and support antibiotic treatment decisions in an established clinical protocol.
What sample is needed?
A healthcare professional collects a venous blood sample. Depending on the method, the laboratory uses serum or plasma.
How should you prepare?
Tell the laboratory about all medicines, hormone treatments, vitamins and supplements you take. Do not stop or change treatment unless your clinician tells you to. Follow any instructions about fasting and the time of collection.
How should you understand the result?
A high result supports the possibility of a significant bacterial infection in the appropriate context, but other causes are possible. An early or localized infection may still produce a low value. Your result is interpreted using the reference interval on the laboratory report and in the context of your symptoms, medical history and other test findings.
Sources and editorial status
This patient-facing text is an editorial draft. It should be approved by a laboratory physician before official publication.