Sepsis is sometimes difficult to diagnose because it is not always symptomatic in the early stages. Oftentimes, something as minor as an athlete's foot can lead to sepsis. Studies have shown that, in people with sepsis, higher procalcitonin levels are associated with a greater risk of progression to severe sepsis, septic shock, and death., In addition to sepsis, there are additional reasons why an individual could have an elevated procalcitonin level. Tell healthcare providers how much formula your newborn eats or how long he or she breastfeeds. Sing or talk softly to your newborn. StatPearls. These include problems like asthma, pneumonia, and cardiac arrest. Your newborn may need phototherapy in the hospital if the jaundice is severe. We comply with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information -. Procalcitonin: a promising diagnostic marker for sepsis and antibiotic therapy. If left untreated, sepsis can lead to septic shock and death. In fact, the risk of death increases by no less than 8% for every hour that treatment is delayed. Jaundice is yellowing of your newborn's eyes and skin. Keep away from direct sunlight and heat. Procalcitonin. Another blood test will be done in 24 hours to check the bilirubin level. He or she may get a skin burn or rash from the lights. Umbilical hematomas are fortunately very rare (incidence approximately 1:5000). These children have a host of developmental problems. He or she may need to be fed more often to help get rid of the bilirubin in his or her bowel movements. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life. 2017;38(2):59-68. In newborns, for example, the procalcitonin level is naturally high.. Jennifer Whitlock, RN, MSN, FNP-C, is a board-certified family nurse practitioner. Clin Biochem Rev. Jaundice happens because your newborn's body breaks down cells correctly, but it cannot remove the bilirubin. Phototherapy is light treatment for newborn jaundice. Studies show that using drugs -- legal or illegal -- … Clinical utility and measurement of procalcitonin. FDA considers drug products to be substitutable if they meet the criteria of therapeutic equivalence, even though the generic drug may differ in … He or she will be placed on his or her back to absorb the most light. Do we need procalcitonin for sepsis?. He currently practices in Westfield, New Jersey. Korean J Pediatr. He or she may also lie on a flexible light pad, or a healthcare provider may wrap him or her in the light pad. You will be taught how to use them. These variants are associated with an increased risk of developing certain cancers. Phototherapy may be done at home. After removing a test strip from the vial, replace the vial cap immediately and close it tightly. Vijayan AL, Vanimaya, Ravindran S, et al. The lights will be removed from your home. Updated September 16, 2019. Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. To avoid damage or contamination, Do Not transfer test strips to any other place. Your newborn may be fussy or irritable during the treatment. Read our, Medically reviewed by Anita C. Chandrasekaran, MD, MPH, Medically reviewed by Matthew Wosnitzer, MD, Medically reviewed by Ana Maria Kausel, MD, Verywell Health uses cookies to provide you with a great user experience. This includes breast milk, formula, or IV liquid. The procalcitonin test is an easy way to make the diagnosis quickly and potentially save lives. The light used for phototherapy helps your newborn's body get rid of extra bilirubin. The procalcitonin result is a guide, not a diagnosis. Eye covers will be used to protect his or her eyes from the light. The lights will be removed from your home. J Intensive Care.