33 Procalcitonin and C reactive protein levels in hospitalised patients receiving intravenous antibiotics

Objective Procalcitonin (PCT), a precursor of calcitonin is selectively raised in bacterial infections. The aim of this pilot study was to investigate the role of PCT as a surrogate marker of infection in adults with CF and to discriminate between infection and inflammation in patients with elevated C reactive protein (CRP). Methods Adults with CF receiving hospital intravenous antibiotics for a pulmonary exacerbation were recruited. PCT levels were prospectively measured in patients with elevated C reactive protein (CRP). Results To date 11 subjects, median (range) age, 32 (21–51) yrs have been investigated. CRP and Procalcitonin levels were 185 (69–283) mg/L and 0.3 ( Conclusion PCT is a more specific marker of severe infection than conventional markers such as CRP. Preliminary data suggests that PCT may be useful in discriminating between severe pulmonary and endobronchial infection as well as noninfectious inflammation. This study is ongoing.