Procalcitonin (PCT), Serum Test Overview

What is the Procalcitonin, Serum Test?

The Procalcitonin, Serum Test measures the level of procalcitonin in the blood, a protein that increases significantly during bacterial infections and systemic inflammation. Procalcitonin is normally present at very low levels, but during severe infections such as sepsis or pneumonia, levels can rise sharply, providing an early marker of bacterial infection.

This test is particularly useful for distinguishing bacterial infections from viral infections, guiding antibiotic therapy, and monitoring response to treatment. High procalcitonin levels may indicate serious bacterial infection or sepsis, whereas low levels usually suggest a viral infection or non-infectious cause of inflammation. Early detection of abnormal procalcitonin levels can help doctors initiate prompt treatment, prevent complications, and improve patient outcomes.

Why Take the Procalcitonin, Serum Test?

This test is recommended if you:

• Have symptoms of severe infection, such as high fever, rapid heart rate, or low blood pressure

• Are being evaluated for sepsis or systemic bacterial infection

• Are in the ICU or hospitalized and need monitoring for infection

• Require guidance on whether antibiotics are necessary

• Need to track the effectiveness of ongoing treatment for bacterial infections

How is the Procalcitonin, Serum Test Carried Out?

• A small blood sample is drawn from a vein in your arm.

• The sample is analyzed in a lab to measure procalcitonin concentration.

• The procedure is quick, safe, and minimally invasive.

How do I Prepare for the Procalcitonin, Serum Test?

• Fasting: Not required.

• Activity: No specific restrictions.

• Medications: Inform your doctor or lab about any current medications, as some may affect results.

Next Steps

If abnormal procalcitonin levels are detected, your doctor may:

• Initiate or adjust antibiotic therapy if bacterial infection is suspected

• Conduct further tests to confirm the source or severity of infection

• Monitor procalcitonin levels periodically to assess treatment response

• Evaluate for potential complications of systemic infection

Why Choose Docty Labs?

✅ NABL-Certified Testing Centres
✅ On-time, Accurate Reports
✅ 100% Digital Reports Available
✅ Affordable Lab Tests & Membership Discounts
✅ Hygienic, Safe, and Convenient Home Sample Collection
✅ Free Teleconsultation with Experienced Doctors from Docty Clinics
✅ Trusted by Doctors and Families Across India

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What is the Procalcitonin, Serum Test?
  It measures procalcitonin levels in the blood to detect bacterial infections and systemic inflammation.

• Is fasting required?
  No, fasting is not required.

• Can the test be done at home?
  Yes, Docty Labs provides safe home blood sample collection.

• Is the test safe?
  Yes, it is a simple and minimally invasive procedure.

• How soon will I get results?
  Typically within 5 hours.

• Does Docty offer discounts on the Procalcitonin, Serum Test?
  Docty Labs offer an additional 20% discount on labs with an annual membership plan.

• How can I book the Procalcitonin, Serum Test?
  You can book online by selecting “Add to Cart” or visit/call your nearest Docty Lab. Home collection is available in Hyderabad.