Procalcitonine et infection

Abstract

The identification and accurate evaluation of the severity of sepsis are the major concern in the emergency room. The usual biological parameters such as hemogram and C-reactive protein are not enough sensitive and specific. Procalcitonin (PCT) is a biomarker of infection. PCT serum levels rise specifically in bacterial or parasitic systemic infections. Conversely, PCT concentrations are not detected or only slightly elevated in viral infections and non-infectious inflammatory conditions. Moreover, PCT crude value is related to the severity of infection. PCT dosage is particularly useful in the emergency room to help the physician in the initiation of antibiotics in patients suspected of having a lower respiratory tract infection, and for the diagnosis of sepsis without a source of infection. PCT dosage also contributes to the accurate evaluation of the severity of sepsis. © 2011 Société française de médecine d'urgence and Springer-Verlag France.