What is a Procalcitonin (PCT) Test?
The Procalcitonin (PCT) test is a critical blood marker used to identify systemic bacterial infections and sepsis. While procalcitonin is normally a precursor to the hormone calcitonin, its levels rise rapidly and significantly in response to bacterial endotoxins. A Procalcitonin test in Kolkata is often used in emergency and intensive care settings to distinguish between life-threatening bacterial infections and viral or non-infectious inflammatory conditions.
Clinical Role in Sepsis and Infection Management
PCT is considered a "gold standard" biomarker for clinical decision-making due to its unique properties:
- Early Detection of Sepsis: PCT levels rise within 2–4 hours of a bacterial trigger, much faster than other markers like CRP, allowing for immediate medical intervention.
- Antibiotic Stewardship: It helps doctors decide whether to start, continue, or stop antibiotics, preventing the overuse of medication for viral illnesses.
- Severity Assessment: The higher the concentration of procalcitonin, the greater the likelihood of systemic infection and organ dysfunction (sepsis).
- Monitoring Treatment: Serial PCT testing allows clinicians to track the effectiveness of treatment; a 50% drop in 24 hours often indicates that the infection is being controlled.
Serving Kaikhali and Airport Gate 2
We provide urgent diagnostic support for the Kaikhali, Airport Gate 2, and Jessore Road areas. Given that Procalcitonin is a time-sensitive marker, our Nagerbazar hub prioritizes these samples to ensure that critical results are delivered to patients and doctors as quickly as possible.
Procalcitonin Test Price in Kolkata
The price for a Procalcitonin test is 3500 at Apollo Diagnostics. No fasting or special preparation is required for this blood test. It is typically recommended for patients showing symptoms of systemic distress, such as high fever, rapid heart rate, confusion, or labored breathing.
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