Test Code RMCPROCALC Procalcitonin (PCT)*

Performing Laboratory

Rutland Regional Medical Center Laboratory

Specimen Type:
Container/Tube:

Preferred: Light-green top (lithium heparin gel or green-yellow)

Specimen Fill Volume: Whole tube.

Specimen Minimum Volume: 1 mL

Daily

Analytical Time:

1 hour from specimen arrival

Roche Cobas

CPT: 84145

Order Code: RMCPROCALC

Result Name / Result Code / Result LOINC:

PCT / RMCL802093 / 33959-8

PCT Interp / RMCL802316 /

PCT > 2 ng/mL A PCT level above 2.0 ng/mL on the first day of ICU admission is associated with a high risk for progression to severe sepsis and/or septic shock. PCT < 0.5 ng/mL A PCT level below 0.5 ng/mL on the first day of ICU admission is associated with a low risk for progression to severe sepsis and/or septic shock. Note: 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 systemic 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’s history. It is recommended to retest PCT within 6‑24 hours if any concentrations < 2 ng/mL are obtained. For convenience, one can use the Change in Procalcitonin Calculator to determine ΔPCT results from the absolute PCT concentrations of a patient obtained on the day severe sepsis or septic shock was first diagnosed (or 24 hours later) and on Day 4. Go to www.BRAHMS‑PCT‑Calculator.com.

Refrigerated