Procalcitonin
Procalcitonin
Procalcitonin (pronunciation: pro-kal-si-to-nin) is a protein that is normally produced in the body in small amounts. However, its levels can significantly increase during severe bacterial infections, making it a useful biomarker in the diagnosis and management of bacterial infections and sepsis.
Etymology
The term "Procalcitonin" is derived from the words "pro-" meaning 'before' or 'precursor', and "calcitonin", a hormone involved in calcium homeostasis. It is so named because it is a precursor to the hormone calcitonin.
Function
Procalcitonin is produced by the C cells of the thyroid and by the neuroendocrine cells of the lung and the intestine. The level of procalcitonin in the blood stream of healthy individuals is very low. However, in response to a systemic bacterial infection, procalcitonin levels rise rapidly.
Clinical significance
Procalcitonin test is used in the diagnosis and management of certain infections. It is particularly useful in distinguishing bacterial infections from other causes of infection or inflammation. The test is often used in conjunction with other tests and the patient's clinical history to make a diagnosis.
Procalcitonin levels are also monitored in patients with sepsis or septic shock. High levels of procalcitonin in the blood can indicate a severe bacterial infection and the risk of developing sepsis.
Related terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Procalcitonin
- Wikipedia's article - Procalcitonin
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