How can we address these limitations?

In this video, Dr Marie Parsons and Helen Pardoe have a conversation about the limitations of PCT use.

One limitation of the use of PCT may be the cost for hospitals. It is relatively expensive in regards to laboratory tests but most immunoassay tests are more expensive. Falsely-raised levels of PCT may also be a limitation. This can occur in situations such as pregnancy, surgical trauma and autoimmune disease patients.

There is a lag phase in PCT which may give false readings if the measurement is taken too early on in the infection but this can be combated by taking a second reading 24-48 hours later, which is actively encouraged.

Dr Parsons also discusses how PCT should not be used in isolation. Its use in patient care should always be supplementary to the clinical judgement of the healthcare professional.

The video concludes with an interesting discussion of Dr Parson’s personal experience with the use of PCT.