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Test Code PCT Procalcitonin

Methodology

Vidas ELFA (Enzyme-linked fluorescent assay)

Performing Laboratory

Sky Lakes Medical Center Laboratory

Specimen Requirements

Lithium Heparin plasma (Green gel tube)

Specimen Transport Temperature

Sample stability: Samples separated from the clot can be stored ay 2-8 C for 48 hours. If longer than 48 hours, freeze at -19 to -31 C for up to 6 months. 

Schedule of Testing:

Daily as requested.

Range and Expected Values

Reference Range: 0.05-0.09 ng/ml

 

  ~ a concentration <0.5 ng/ml represents a low risk of severe sepsis and/or septic shock.

  ~ a concentration >2.0 ng/ml represents a high risk of severe sepsis and/or septic shock.

 

Nevertheless, concentrations <0.5 ng/ml do not exclude an infection on account of localized infections (without systemic signs) which can be associated with such low concentrations, or a septic infection in its initial stages (< 6 hours). Furthermore, increased procalcitonin can occur without infection. PCT concentrations between 0.5 and 2.0 ng/ml should be interpreted taking into account the patient history. It is recommended to retest PCT within 6-24 hours if any concentrations <2 ng/ml are obtained.