Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test
The Interleukin-6 Test measures the Interleukin-6 level in the blood.
Methodology:
Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Preparation:
No special preparation required.
Test Results:
5-8 Days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Walk-In Lab is prohibited from selling LabCorp tests to residents in the following states:NY, NJ, RI, MA, MD
Methodology:
Immunoassay (IA)
Preparation:
No special preparation required.
Test Results:
3-5 Days. May take longer based on weather, holiday or lab delays.
Walk-In Lab is prohibited from selling Quest tests to residents in the following states:AZ, NY, NJ, RI
The level of Interleukin 6 (IL6) in the blood is measured using this test. Interleukin 6 is a cytokine, a protein involved in the immunological response of the body. IL6 levels are generally low or undetectable. However, autoimmune disorders, inflammation, infection, some types of cancer, and heart disease can all cause them to rise. While elevated IL6 levels can indicate that a person is suffering from an inflammatory illness, it cannot pinpoint the cause of the inflammation. Therefore, before a diagnosis may be made, more testing is usually required.
An IL6 test may be ordered as a follow-up following a high CRP result. IL6 levels can also track the progression of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, lupus, sepsis, and stroke.
