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In this article we are going to know about the protein called procalcitonin why this is an important diagnostic tool for the diagnosis of an infection. And why assessing the level of this protein is very important to prevent...
What is a Procalcitonin Test?
This test measures the level of procalcitonin in your blood. Generally the level of procalcitonin in our blood is low but incase of severe bacterial infections or if the patient is at high risk of developing sepsis then the level of procalcitonin increases in our blood. Therefore this test helps in identifying the bacterial infections and sepsis.
Uses of Procalcitonin Test?
- This test helps in determining the risk whether the critically ill patient will develop sepsis or not.
- It helps distinguish between the bacterial and non bacterial infections.
- This test helps in determining the effectiveness of the antibiotics whether it should be continued or not.
- This test helps in monitoring the treatment effectiveness
Why is the Procalcitonin Test Ordered?
This test is generally ordered by the physician when a patients develop signs and symptoms of severe bacterial infections such as
- Shivering
- Chills
- high fever
- Excessive sweating
- Rapid heartbeat
- Shortness of breath
- Pain and discomfort
What Does the Test Result Indicates
- The low level of procalcitonin means that the person is at low risk of developing sepsis, the low level also means that the symptoms may be due to other reasons than the bacterial infections, it may be due to viral infection. It also indicated that the infection is localised; it has not spread and become systemic infection.
- High level of procalcitonin indicates that the person is at high risk of developing sepsis and can even progress to severe sepsis. High level is generally seen in people with severe bacterial infections
- Moderate level of procalcitonin in the blood indicates non infectious state or an early infection
Preparation for the Procalcitonin Test
No preparation is needed for this test
Procedure for Procalcitonin Test
- The healthcare professional will locate a vein from your arm
- Then a needle is inserted into the vein and the blood is drawn from that vein
- After collecting the blood sample the needle will be removed
- Then the puncture area will be covered with the bandage to avoid the bleeding
Cost of Procalcitonin in Delhi
The cost of procalcitonin test may varies based on the location and the reputation of the diagnostic centre the average cost of procalcitonin test is 2500-3000 rs but at ganesh diagnostic you can book this test at discounted prices
Why Choose Ganesh Diagnostic?
- We are the most trusted diagnostic centre and have served more than 1m+ happy customers
- We are accredited with the NABH and NABL
- We provide quality test at an affordable price
- We also provide free home blood sample collection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is procalcitonin?
Procalcitonin is a protein and its level in our blood is generally low
What is the normal range of PCT’s test
The normal range is less than or equivalent to 0.05ng/ml
What is the cost for this test?
The cost for this test at ganesh diagnostic is 2400 rs , you can easily book this test online or visit your nearest ganesh diagnostic centre.
Why do I need this test?
If you have a symptoms of severe bacterial infection then the physician might ordered this test to ruled out the risk of sepsis
What are the Symptoms of High Procalcitonin level?
Symptoms of high procalcitonin level are - high fever,excessive sweating,rapid heartbeat pain or discomfort
