Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test
The Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test checks for a protein that shows if you have inflammation or infection, helping doctors find and treat health problems.
Methodology:
Electrochemiluminescence Immunoassay (ECLIA)
Preparation:
No special preparation is 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 is 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
What is the purpose of this test?
An Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test measures the amount of IL-6, a protein in your blood that plays a key role in your body's immune response. IL-6 is produced by your body when it's fighting off infections or dealing with inflammation. When you have an infection, injury, or chronic disease, your IL-6 levels can rise, signaling that your immune system is working hard to address the issue. This test helps doctors understand the level of inflammation in your body and can provide important clues about your overall health.
Doctors might order an IL-6 test if you have symptoms like fever, fatigue, or unexplained swelling, which can be related to inflammation or other underlying health problems. High levels of IL-6 can indicate various conditions, such as infections, autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, or even certain cancers. By knowing your IL-6 levels, doctors can get a better picture of what might be causing your symptoms and develop a more effective treatment plan to manage your condition and improve your health.
Who should get this test?
The Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test would be beneficial to:
- Individuals with Chronic Inflammation
- Patients with Autoimmune Diseases
- People with Persistent Fever
- Those with Symptoms of Infection
- Patients with Certain Cancers
- People with Unexplained Weight Loss
- Individuals with Severe Fatigue
- Patients with Heart Disease
When should I order an Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test?
Individuals should consider ordering an Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Blood Test if they have symptoms or conditions that suggest significant inflammation or related health issues. This test helps diagnose and monitor inflammatory conditions by measuring IL-6 levels in your blood. Symptoms to consider:
- Persistent Fever
- Chronic Fatigue
- Unexplained Weight Loss
- Swelling
- Joint Pain
- Pain and Tenderness
- Symptoms of Autoimmune Diseases
If you experience these symptoms or have ongoing issues with inflammation, an IL-6 test can provide valuable information to help diagnose and manage your condition.
