Reference ranges
| Systemic infection (sepsis) is unlikely* | < 0.5 ng/mL |
| Systemic infection (sepsis) is possible. Patient should be closely monitored | ≥ 0.5 and < 2 ng/mL |
| Represent a high risk of severe sepsis and/or septic shock | ≥ 2 and < 10 ng/mL |
| Severe sepsis or septic shock, almost exclusively due to severe bacterial infection | ≥ 10 ng/mL |
*Note: PCT levels may be elevated independently of bacterial infection in neonates (< first 3 days of life, physiological elevation). Increased levels of PCT may also occur in patients with special medical conditions eg. polytrauma, major surgery and severe burns.
PCT measurement is also recommended by the International Federation of Clinical Chemistry and Laboratory Medicine (IFCC) for patients with COVID-19.