Procalcitonin (PCT) is a valuable biomarker for the assessment of systemic bacterial infections and sepsis. Under normal physiological conditions, PCT is present in the circulation at very low concentrations. During severe bacterial infection and systemic inflammatory responses, its production increases significantly, resulting in elevated serum or plasma PCT levels.

Measurement of PCT can support the early detection and assessment of bacterial infections, help differentiate bacterial infections from non-bacterial inflammatory conditions, and provide useful information for monitoring the severity and progression of infection. Serial PCT measurements may also assist clinicians in evaluating the response to antimicrobial therapy and supporting antibiotic management decisions.

PCT results should always be interpreted in conjunction with clinical findings, medical history, and other laboratory parameters. Certain non-infectious conditions may also cause elevated PCT concentrations and should be considered during clinical interpretation.