What is the normal value of procalcitonin?
May 11, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Pan Yongyuan
Introduction
The normal reference range for procalcitonin primarily depends on the immunoassay method used. When colloidal gold colorimetric assay is employed, the normal value is <0.5 ng/mL. When chemiluminescent immunoassay is used, the normal upper limit is <0.1 ng/mL. With radioimmunoassay, the detection sensitivity can reach 4 pg/mL.
Procalcitonin (PCT) is currently a widely used biomarker for diagnosing bacterial infections. It exhibits a relatively rapid and sensitive response, though it is most commonly applied in febrile patients. So, what is the normal reference range for procalcitonin?
What is the normal reference range for procalcitonin?
The normal reference range for procalcitonin primarily depends on the immunoassay method employed. When using colloidal gold colorimetric assay, the normal value is <0.5 ng/mL. With chemiluminescent immunoassay, the lower limit of normal is <0.1 pg/mL. In contrast, radioimmunoassay offers a detection sensitivity of up to 4 pg/mL.
Procalcitonin is a protein whose plasma concentration increases significantly in severe infections—including bacterial, fungal, or parasitic infections—as well as in sepsis and multi-organ dysfunction syndrome. Notably, PCT levels do not rise in autoimmune disorders, allergic reactions, or viral infections, nor in localized, mild, or chronic inflammatory conditions. Therefore, PCT serves as a highly valuable clinical tool for differentiating and diagnosing infectious etiologies.
A PCT level exceeding 0.5 ng/mL often suggests bacterial infection; values above 2.0 ng/mL raise suspicion for severe infection or sepsis; and levels surpassing 5.0 ng/mL warrant urgent evaluation for septicemia or even septic shock. Please remain vigilant in daily practice. We hope this information proves helpful. Wishing you good health and happiness!
