Background: Acute pancreatitis (AP) presents a clinical spectrum from mild to severe disease with systemic complications. Serum procalcitonin, a marker of bacterial translocation and inflammation, may help predict adverse outcomes. This study explores the correlation between procalcitonin levels and clinical outcomes in AP.

Methods: In a prospective observational study of 100 patients with AP, serum procalcitonin levels were measured at admission. Outcomes including ICU admission, organ dysfunction, length of hospital stay, and mortality were analyzed in relation to procalcitonin levels.

Results: Elevated serum procalcitonin levels showed strong correlation with poor outcomes. Patients with procalcitonin >2 ng/mL had significantly higher rates of ICU admission, longer hospital stays, and increased mortality.

Conclusion: Serum procalcitonin is a reliable early biomarker for predicting adverse clinical outcomes in acute pancreatitis, aiding in early identification of high-risk patients.