Extremely Elevated Procalcitonin in a Case of Acetaminophen Overdose and Acute Liver Injury

Abstract

We herein report a 46-year-old man who suffered an intentional acetaminophen overdose. Laboratory results revealed leukocytosis and an elevated procalcitonin level (8.48 ng/mL). Computed tomography showed findings suggesting possible colitis. Due to concerns about sepsis in addition to acetaminophen overdose, oral N-acetyl cysteine and piperacillin/tazobactam were started. His procalcitonin levels further increased; however, the patient remained afebrile, and the C-reactive protein levels were normal. Piperacillin/tazobactam was discontinued, and he remained stable without antibiotics. The present case shows that the toxicokinetics of acetaminophen overdose can cause an elevated procalcitonin level. Furthermore, procalcitonin levels alone should not guide the need for antibiotics in such cases.