Procalcitonin

PCT Serum Procalcitonin
Serum (SST) µg/L

About this test

Pro-hormone of calcitonin; markedly elevated in bacterial sepsis and systemic bacterial infection. Less elevated in viral infections and non-infectious inflammatory conditions. Used for antibiotic stewardship.

Reference Ranges

Sex Age Range Notes
All ≥ 18 yrs < 0.25 Normal <0.25; low-risk sepsis 0.25–0.5; probable sepsis 0.5–2.0; high risk sepsis/septic shock >2.0; fulminant sepsis >10

Clinical Interpretation

High / Increased
Bacterial sepsis, bacterial pneumonia, bacteraemia, post-major surgery. Less elevated in: viral infections, localised infections, autoimmune disease, non-infectious SIRS.

Related Tests

Specimen
Serum (SST)
Reporting Unit
µg/L

⚠ Clinical Note
Reference ranges are indicative. Always interpret results in the context of the individual patient and local laboratory reference intervals, which may vary.