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The Case of Procalcitonin for Lower Respiratory Tract Infections

Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) contribute significantly to the morbidity and mortality among all age groups. Antibiotics can effectively treat LRTIs due to bacterial infection. Unfortunately, they are commonly prescribed even when the cause of the infection is non-bacterial, leading to an increase in antimicrobial resistance, mortality and health costs. This review aims to highlight the importance of procalcitonin (PCT) for the diagnosis of bacterial LRTIs. We conclude that PCT serum levels can help clinicians establish the need for antibiotics and individualise the duration of treatment in LRTIs. In addition, serum PCT provide prognostic information about the severity of the disease. However, PCT serum levels cannot inform decisions on a stand-alone fashion and should not be expected to substitute a thorough history and physical examination. (BRN Rev. 2019;5(4):277-93) Corresponding author: Daiana Stolz, daiana.stolz@usb.ch