Hepato Gastroenterol
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Hepato Gastroenterol · Jun 2013
ReviewValue of serum procalcitonin levels in predicting spontaneous bacterial peritonitis.
Spontaneous bacterial peritonitis (SBP) is a life-threatening disease that poses a great diagnostic challenge to clinicians. We aimed to systemically and quantitatively summarize the current evidence on the diagnostic value of the procalcitonin (PCT) test in identifying SBP. ⋯ The existing literature suggests moderate to high accuracy for PCT as a diagnostic aid for SBP. However, larger, appropriately designed prospective studies are needed to conclusively address the value of serum PCT testing in SBP diagnosis.