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DNA Labs India

Procainamide Test

DNA Labs India | ISO 9001:2015 Certified

Procainamide Test

Short Name: PCT

Also known as: PCT Test, Procalcitonin Blood Test, Bacterial Infection Marker

Procainamide Test test available at DNA Labs India for ₹4,500. Uses Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay on Serum samples. Results in Reports are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.. Free home collection in 300+ cities across India.

Blood Test🏠 Home Collection

✍️ Written By

🩺 Medically Reviewed By

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Dr Pasupathy Arumugam

Consultant Pathologist · Reg: 21521

Last reviewed: September 7, 2026

Overview

To diagnose and monitor bacterial infections, guide antibiotic therapy, and differentiate bacterial from viral infections.

Test Code
1396
Price
₹4,500
Sample Type
Serum
Result Time
Reports are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
Fasting Required
No
Method
Electrochemiluminescent Immunoassay
Step 1

Sample Collection

No special preparation required. Inform your doctor about any medications or conditions.

Method: Venipuncture

Step 2

Laboratory Analysis

A blood sample will be drawn from a vein in your arm by a trained phlebotomist.

Step 3

Report Delivery

Apply pressure to the puncture site to stop bleeding. You can resume normal activities immediately.

Timeline: Reports are typically available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.

Patient Instructions

1
Before the Test:No special preparation is required. Stay hydrated and inform the lab staff of any relevant medical history.
2
During the Test:The test involves a simple blood draw from a vein in your arm, taking only a few minutes.
3
After the Test:You may experience minor bruising at the puncture site. Apply pressure and avoid heavy lifting with that arm for a few hours.

About This Test

Who Should Get This Test

To diagnose and monitor bacterial infections, guide antibiotic therapy, and differentiate bacterial from viral infections.

How to Prepare

  • No fasting required
  • Sample collected via venipuncture
  • Wear loose clothing for easy access to the arm

Doctor's Notes

Reviewed by — MBBS, MD (Pathology) · Reg. No. 21521

"The procalcitonin test is crucial for differentiating bacterial from viral infections and guiding antibiotic therapy to avoid misuse."

Last medically reviewed: September 7, 2026

Test Parameters & Specifications

Sample TypeSerum
Sample Volume2 mL (1 mL min.)
ContainerSST (Serum Separator Tube)
Collection MethodVenipuncture

Sample Stability

Room TemperatureNot applicable
Refrigerator24 hours
Frozen3 months
Sample Rejection Criteria:
  • Hemolyzed samples
  • Lipemic samples
  • Insufficient sample volume
  • Improperly labeled samples

Understanding Your Results

Procalcitonin levels help assess the likelihood of a bacterial infection and monitor treatment response.
📊

No significant bacterial infection likely

Range: <0.05 ng/mL

Level: Normal

📊

Possible localized bacterial infection; clinical correlation recommended

Range: 0.05-0.5 ng/mL

Level: Borderline

📊

Likely systemic bacterial infection; consider antibiotic therapy

Range: >0.5 ng/mL

Level: Elevated

⚠️ When to Consult a Doctor:

If you have symptoms of infection like fever, chills, or pain, or if your procalcitonin levels are elevated, consult a healthcare provider for appropriate treatment.

Limitations

  • ⚠Not specific to a single type of bacteria
  • ⚠Results should be interpreted with clinical symptoms and other tests
  • ⚠May be elevated in non-bacterial conditions like trauma or surgery

Risks & Considerations

  • ●Minor bruising or swelling at the puncture site
  • ●Lightheadedness or dizziness during blood draw
  • ●Rare risk of infection at the puncture site

Interfering Factors

  • ●Certain medications like immunosuppressants
  • ●Chronic inflammatory conditions
  • ●Renal impairment
  • ●Sample hemolysis

Compare With Similar Tests

TestProcainamide Test
ComparisonProcainamide Test

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the procalcitonin test?
The procalcitonin test is a blood test that measures levels of procalcitonin, a protein used as a biomarker to detect bacterial infections.
Why is the procalcitonin test important?
It helps diagnose bacterial infections quickly and accurately, guiding antibiotic use and preventing unnecessary treatment for viral infections.
What does a high procalcitonin level indicate?
A high procalcitonin level typically indicates a bacterial infection, such as sepsis or pneumonia, and may require antibiotic therapy.
How is the procalcitonin test performed?
A healthcare professional draws a blood sample from a vein in your arm using a needle. The sample is then analyzed in a laboratory.
What is the cost of the procalcitonin test in India?
The cost is INR 4500 at DNA Labs India, which includes home sample collection and report delivery.
Is fasting required for the procalcitonin test?
No, fasting is not required. You can eat and drink normally before the test.
How long does it take to get the results?
Results are usually available within 24 hours via online portal, email, or WhatsApp.
What are the symptoms of bacterial infection that may require this test?
Common symptoms include fever, chills, sweating, shortness of breath, chest pain, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Can the procalcitonin test differentiate between bacterial and viral infections?
Yes, procalcitonin levels are typically elevated in bacterial infections but not in viral ones, helping doctors choose the right treatment.
Is the procalcitonin test covered by insurance?
Coverage depends on your insurance plan. It is not automatically covered under schemes like PMJAY; check with your insurer.
What other tests are used to diagnose bacterial infections?
Other tests include blood cultures, C-reactive protein (CRP) test, complete blood count (CBC), and urinalysis.
How should I prepare for the procalcitonin test?
No special preparation is needed. Just ensure you are hydrated and inform the lab about any medications or health conditions.
Worried about the process? Our certified phlebotomists collect thousands of samples every month across India. The process takes under 5 minutes and is virtually painless. Questions? Message us on WhatsApp — we're here 7 days a week.

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For Hospitals & Clinics

Reference Laboratory Services

We serve as a reference laboratory for hospitals and clinics across India. Send samples from your facility with same-day pickup, priority processing, and results delivered through our online portal. Competitive institutional pricing available.

LIMS Integration

Your Data Privacy

Your medical data is protected under Indian law.

✓ Stored in India: All patient records are stored on servers located in India. No data is transferred outside the country.

✓ DPDP Act Compliant: Under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act 2023, you can request deletion of your records at any time by contacting support.

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