Procalcitonin Test

High procalcitonin levels often indicate a severe bacterial infection, especially in the bloodstream. Elevated levels can signal systemic inflammation, guiding clinicians to assess and manage bacterial infections.

Procalcitonin is a precursor to the hormone calcitonin. Its main function is to increase during bacterial infections and sepsis, serving as a biomarker for systemic inflammation. It helps clinicians differentiate between bacterial and viral infections.

The procalcitonin test is not specifically designed for tuberculosis (TB). TB is primarily diagnosed through tests like the tuberculin skin test, interferon-gamma release assays (IGRAs), and chest X-rays. Procalcitonin is more useful in identifying bacterial infections.

Procalcitonin is a valuable marker for bacterial infections, aiding in distinguishing them from viral infections. Elevated levels prompt clinicians to investigate potential bacterial involvement. However, it is not specific to TB and should be used in conjunction with other diagnostic methods.