What does elevated procalcitonin and C-reactive protein indicate?
Apr 04, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Yang Shuwen
Introduction
Elevated procalcitonin and C-reactive protein levels may indicate infection or inflammatory response in the body. Procalcitonin is a precursor protein synthesized by thyroid C cells, and under normal circumstances, its concentration in the blood is very low. During infection or inflammation, the synthesis of procalcitonin increases, leading to elevated levels of procalcitonin in the bloodstream.
Elevated levels of procalcitonin and C-reactive protein may indicate infection or inflammatory response in the body.
Procalcitonin is a precursor protein synthesized by thyroid C cells, normally present in very low concentrations in the blood. During infection or inflammation, the production of procalcitonin increases, leading to elevated blood levels. Therefore, increased procalcitonin may reflect an infection or inflammatory process.
C-reactive protein is a protein produced by the liver and serves as a marker of inflammation. When inflammation occurs in the body, the synthesis of C-reactive protein increases, resulting in higher blood levels. Thus, elevated C-reactive protein may also indicate infection or inflammation.
In addition, both elevated procalcitonin and C-reactive protein levels may suggest infection or inflammation. However, definitive diagnosis requires comprehensive evaluation based on clinical symptoms and other test results; it cannot be made based solely on a single indicator. If such abnormalities are detected, prompt medical consultation is recommended for proper diagnosis and treatment by a qualified physician.
