The procalcitonin test may help prevent unnecessary use of antibiotic, which can lead to antibiotic-resistance bacteria. In comparison to traditional blood tests, which may take 24 to 48 hours to detect infections, a PCT could detect infections in less than one hour if the healthcare facility has on-site lab testing.
The PCT has already been approved by the FDA for diagnosing sepsis. Summa is expected to begin trials to determine the test’s efficacy in pneumonia patients this summer.
Related Articles on Antibiotics:
16 Statistics on the State of Healthcare Quality
Bipartisan FDA Reauthorization Bill Passes Senate Committee
FDA Takes Steps to Foster Judicious Antimicrobial Use
At the Becker's 11th Annual IT + Revenue Cycle Conference: The Future of AI & Digital Health, taking place September 14–17 in Chicago, healthcare executives and digital leaders from across the country will come together to explore how AI, interoperability, cybersecurity, and revenue cycle innovation are transforming care delivery, strengthening financial performance, and driving the next era of digital health. Apply for complimentary registration now.