Procalcitonin
Test:
256
CPT:
84145
Synonyms
1-PCT
Special Instructions
This test may exhibit interference when sample is collected from a person who is consuming a supplement with a high dose of biotin (also termed as vitamin B7 or B8, vitamin H, or coenzyme R). It is recommended to ask all patients who may be indicated for this test about biotin supplementation. Patients should be cautioned to stop biotin consumption at least 72 hours prior to the collection of a sample.
Expected Turnaround Time
2 – 3 days
Specimen Requirements
Specimen
2 – 3 days
Volume
0.8 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL (Note: This volume does not allow for repeat testing.)
Container
Red-top tube, gel-barrier tube, green-top (lithium heparin) tube, or lavender-top (EDTA) tube
Collection
Separate serum or plasma from cells and transfer to a plastic transport tube before freezing. To avoid delays in turnaround time when requesting multiple tests on frozen samples, please submit separate frozen specimens for each test requested.
Storage Instructions
Freeze; stable at room temperature for 24 hours. Stable refrigerated for 48 hours or frozen for three months. Freeze/thaw cycles: stable x1.
Causes for Rejection
Samples stored at room temperature for >24 hours; samples stored refrigerated for >48 hours
Test Details
Use
Used in conjunction with other laboratory findings and clinical assessments, Elecsys BRAHMS PCT is intended for use as follows11:
• to aid in the risk assessment of critically ill patients on their first day of ICU admission for progression to severe sepsis and septic shock;
• to determine the change in PCT level over time as an aid in assessing the cumulative 28-day risk of all-cause mortality for patients diagnosed with severe sepsis or septic shock in the ICU or when obtained in the emergency department or other medical wards prior to ICU admission;
• to aid in decision making on antibiotic therapy, for inpatients or patients in the emergency department with suspected or confirmed lower respiratory tract infections (LRTI) — defined as community-acquired pneumonia (CAP), acute bronchitis, and acute exacerbation of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (AECOPD);
• to aid in decision making on antibiotic discontinuation for patients with suspected or confirmed sepsis.