📌 What is the IL-6 Test?
A blood test that measures levels of Interleukin-6 (IL-6), a pro-inflammatory cytokine produced by the immune system.
IL-6 plays a role in inflammation, infection response, and autoimmune conditions.
Elevated IL-6 levels may indicate chronic inflammation, infection, or severe immune disorders.
🎯 Purpose of the Test
✅ Assesses inflammatory and autoimmune conditions (e.g., rheumatoid arthritis, lupus).
✅ Helps diagnose and monitor severe infections, sepsis, and cytokine storms.
✅ Evaluates risk and severity of conditions like COVID-19 and cardiovascular diseases.
✅ Monitors treatment response in inflammatory diseases.
📊 Normal Ranges & Interpretation
🔹 Normal IL-6 Levels: < 5 pg/mL (can vary by laboratory).
🔹 Elevated IL-6 Levels: May indicate:
Inflammatory diseases (e.g., arthritis, lupus, Crohn’s disease)
Chronic infections or sepsis
Severe COVID-19 or cytokine storm syndrome
Certain cancers (e.g., multiple myeloma, lymphoma)
📝 Test Procedure
1️⃣ A blood sample is drawn from a vein.
2️⃣ The sample is analyzed using ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) or other immunoassays.
3️⃣ Results indicate the level of IL-6 and help guide diagnosis and treatment.
⚠️ Who Should Get Tested?
🔹 Individuals with symptoms of chronic inflammation, such as:
Persistent fever, fatigue, joint pain
Swelling and redness in the body
Unexplained weight loss
🔹 Patients with suspected sepsis or cytokine storm (severe immune response).
🔹 People with autoimmune disorders or cancer undergoing treatment.
✅ Why is This Test Important?
✔️ Helps diagnose serious inflammatory and autoimmune diseases.
✔️ Identifies cytokine storm syndromes in critical conditions like COVID-19.
✔️ Assists in monitoring inflammation and guiding treatment.