Test Description: Procalcitonin

The Procalcitonin test measures the level of procalcitonin, a protein produced by the body in response to bacterial infections. Elevated procalcitonin levels are commonly associated with severe bacterial infections, including sepsis, pneumonia, and meningitis. It is used to help differentiate bacterial infections from viral infections, as well as to assess the severity of infection and monitor the effectiveness of treatment. This test is particularly valuable in guiding the use of antibiotics and helping healthcare providers manage infections more effectively.