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Timing Matters: PCT Rises Faster
- CRP and ANC rise later in infection, limiting early sensitivity.
- Procalcitonin rises quickly and detects serious infections earlier in the course.
Fallback: CRP + ANC When PCT Unavailable
- If you lack PCT, combine CRP and ANC (and urinalysis) using validated stepwise rules.
- Expect lower specificity and more LPs/admissions, but this remains a safe approach.
Push For Targeted PCT Access
- Advocate for local PCT availability but use it selectively for infants under 60 days.
- The test cost (~$27) may be offset by fewer admissions, LPs, and overall lower system costs.