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Test Code PROCAL Procalcitonin

Additional Codes

LAB12835

Performing Laboratory

Central Peninsula Hospital

Collection Method

Venipuncture

Container

Lt Green / Plasma Separator / Lithium Heparin

Specimen Type

Preferred

  • Plasma- Light Green Top (Lithium heparin)

 

Acceptable

  • Serum- Gold Top SST or Red Top

Minimum Volume

0.5ml

Specimen Stability

Ambient 1 day
Refrigerated (4°C to 8°C) 2 days
Frozen(-40°C to 0°C) 12 months

Reference or Target Ranges

Age Male Female
<72 hours Reference Range Not Established Reference Range Not Established
>72 hours

comment 1

comment 1

 

comment 1:

< 0.15 ng/mL: Normal – Seen in healthy individuals. Infection is unlikely.

0.15 – 0.5 ng/mL: Low PCT – A serious bacterial infection (like sepsis) is unlikely, but not ruled out. If symptoms are new (within 6 hours), retesting in 6–24 hours may help.

0.5 – 2.0 ng/mL: Moderate PCT – Possible infection. Monitor symptoms and repeat the test within 24 hours.

2.0 – 10 ng/mL: High PCT – Likely bacterial infection. Higher risk for severe illness.

> 10 ng/mL: Very High PCT – Strongly suggests severe bacterial sepsis or septic shock.

Reportable Units

ng/ml

Critical Value

Not defined for this assay

Reasons for Rejection

Hemolysis Threshold N/A
Icterus Threshold N/A
Lipemia Threshold N/A
Other QNS, contaminated, improperly labeled, improper specimen type

Performance Information

Days and Time Performed 24/7
Expected Turn Around Time STAT: 1 hour
Routine: 4 hours
Stat Availability Yes
Performing Bench CPH Chemistry
Methodology/Method Description Roche Cobas

CPT Codes

84145

Last review/edit date

2025