Role Of Serum Procalcitonin As An Adjunct Biomarker In Early Diagnosis Of Sepsis

Role of Serum Procalcitonin As an Adjunct Biomarker

Abstract

Background: A very high morbidity and mortality is associated with patients admitted with sepsis. While other biomarkers take some time for confirmation of sepsis, role of serum procalcitonin (PCT) for early diagnosis of sepsis has been explored in recent years. Several studies have widely advocated positively for its use. Current study was carried out to explore common sources of sepsis, determine validity of PCT as a test in determining sepsis and its relationship with sepsis. Materials and Methods: 42 individuals with a probability of sepsis admitted in ICU of a tertiary care hospital in western India were taken as study subjects. Along with necessary microbiological, laboratory and other tests, serum PCT was assessed on admission. PCT values >0.5 ng/ml were considered as positive. Relationship of PCT values was assessed in confirmed cases of sepsis and non-sepsis. Sensitivity, specificity and positive predictive value for PCT were also calculated. Current study was carried out in a private sector. In unavailability of institutional review body, due consents were taken from the stake holders prior to the study. Confidentiality and anonymity of the patients were maintained throughout the periods of study. Results and conclusions: Incidence of sepsis was more in males and people aged 55 years or more. More than half of study subjects were confirmed for sepsis. Respiratory and urinary tract infections were common causes of sepsis. Serum PCT proved to be a good indicator of sepsis in critically ill patients with sensitivity of 82.6%, specificity of 73.3% and positive predictive value of 79.2%. Relationship between PCT and sepsis was statistically significant (Chi-square 11.3 at df 1, p<0.05). PCT as an adjunct biomarker can prove helpful in Indian settings for early diagnosis of sepsis. [Mehta M Natl J Integr Res Med, 2020; 11(1):49-53]