The role of Procalcitonin in management of pleural infections

Introduction: Procalcitonin (PCT) is a highly specific marker of systemic bacterial infection, however its role in guiding the management of pleural infection has not been explored. We investigated its role in the management of this condition. Methods: Patients with a presentation consistent with pleural infection with either pleural fluid pH Data were collected prospectively on all patients. Patients with an expected survival of Results: Between December 16 and March 18, 33 patients met our inclusion criteria. PCT levels dropped and sepsis resolved in all patients. Outcomes are listed in Table 1. Conclusion: PCT appears to be a more useful marker of treatment response for pleural infection. Pleural inflammation may be contributing to fever and elevated CRP leading to unnecessary surgical intervention in some patients.