IL-6 Test: When is it Done, Low vs Normal vs High Range, Cost in India

What is IL-6?

Puzzled about what exactly is IL-6 and why it keeps showing on your reports? We have all the answers for you.

Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a type of cytokine, an endogenous chemical produced by the body as a response to inflammatory conditions. This cytokine IL-6 plays an important role in immunity. It is produced in various cell types such as macrophages, endothelial cells, and T cells. The levels of IL-6 change whenever the body experiences a pathogenic invasion. IL-6 plays a role as a part of the innate immune system by acting on hepatocytes to induce expression of C-reactive protein, fibrinogen, and serum amyloid A. IL-6 also aids in activating antibody-producing B cells and causes its proliferate which causes increased antibody response.

What is the role of IL-6 in viral diseases?

With the viral diseases it has been known that the detection and control of inflammatory response in the body is significant during the early stages of any viral infection. Since 2020, COVID-19 and its strains are emerging viral diseases of global concern for which absolute treatment is still unknown. Various studies have resulted in the conclusion that IL-6 is one of the key cytokines released as a response to inflammation in the body. Therefore, researchers are of the opinion that evaluating the levels of systemic IL-6 levels in COVID-19 infected patients can be an identification mark for COVID-19 disease severity. Also, it has been reported that IL-6 is one of the important  pro-inflammatory compounds in COVID-19 patients. Therefore, researchers have reported that the monoclonal antibody against IL-6 receptors, that is drugs like tocilizumab, can be a treatment for  COVID-19 as its cytokine storm blocking property can be harnessed.

When is the IL-6 test done?

The physicians recommend the interleukin-6 test in conditions such as infection, sepsis, lupus, or rheumatoid arthritis, chronic diabetes, stroke, and heart and heart related diseases.

 During normal body processes, IL-6 has a significant role in cellular homeostasis. But it is observed that during any inflammatory conditions, the concentration of IL-6 is known to increase rapidly, Therefore, the levels of IL-6 in humans is a signal that there lies infections (sepsis), inflammation, autoimmunity, and cancer. Many researchers have postulated that increased concentrations of IL-6 are studied in localised organs such as  prosthetic joint infections [PJI], periodontitis, and systemic level such as in case of  sepsis, coronavirus 2019 [COVID-19])infections, autoimmune conditions and cancers.

Thus, it is evident from the Interleukin-6 serum levels that prediction of  severity and treatment response to IL-6 targeted therapies in cases of PJI, sepsis, COVID-19  and RA can be done. Therefore, IL-6 cytokine is considered to be a nonspecific biomarker of localised or systemic inflammation that aids the physicians to make informed decisions regarding line of treatment for patients.

How is the test done?

In order to conduct the test, a blood sample is withdrawn from the vein of the patient and laboratory investigation requires 1-2 days.

What are the normal values for the IL-6 test?

Values which are < or =1.8 pg/mL are considered to be normal. The values of IL-6 are interpreted by the physician as per the investigation purpose. Other tests along with IL-6 offer estimation for diagnosis.

What does High and Low levels of IL-6 values mean?

Various studies have reported that Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a nonspecific marker which specifies inflammatory response of the body and is not a diagnostic tool for any disease or disease process. Therefore, physicians can relate the elevated concentrations of IL-6 must as per the clinical context of the patient. Also, normal levels of IL-6 are not an indication that there is no ongoing inflammatory process in the body.

What are the other tests conducted along with IL-6?

In order to confirm inflammatory response in the body the most widely conducted is CRP test. This test is advised by the physician along with the Il-7 to confirm the severity of the inflammatory response.

What is the cost of the IL-6 test in India?

IL-6 Test Cost in Metro Cities at Redcliffe Labs	Cost in INR
IL-6 Test Cost in Delhi	2400
IL-6 Test Cost in Mumbai	2400
IL-6 Test Cost in Kolkata	2400
IL-6 Test Cost in Banglore	2400
IL-6 Test Cost in Hyderabad	2400

Conclusion

IL-6 is an inflammatory cytokine produced in the body in response to the elicited immune system. The reason for elicitation of the immune system is external microbial or pathogenic attack. The evaluation of the levels of IL-6 offers the physician an estimate regarding the severity of the microbial or pathogenic attack. But the levels of IL-6 are not a perfect estimation to the presence or absence of inflammation and are subject to the clinical context of evaluation. Recently during COVID -19 pandemic IL-6 and CRP levels had gained attention to evaluate the prognosis of COVID-19 disease severity in the patients.  

FAQs

Q: What is the IL-6 test?

A: The IL-6 test measures the level of Interleukin-6, a cytokine or signaling protein, in the blood. IL-6 is often associated with inflammation and immune system activity.

Q: Why is the IL-6 test performed?

A: The IL-6 test is performed to assess inflammation levels in the body. It is commonly used to help diagnose and monitor conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, certain autoimmune disorders, and infections.

Q: How is the IL-6 test conducted?

A: The IL-6 test is a blood test. A healthcare professional will draw a small sample of blood, typically from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Q: What do high levels of IL-6 indicate?

A: Elevated levels of IL-6 in the blood may suggest an increased inflammatory response. This can be indicative of various conditions, including infections, autoimmune diseases, and certain cancers.

Q: Are there any specific preparations for the IL-6 test?

A: Generally, no special preparations are needed for the IL-6 test. However, it's essential to follow any instructions provided by your healthcare provider, such as fasting requirements.

Q: How is the IL-6 test used in treatment decisions?

A: The IL-6 test results can help healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding the management and treatment of inflammatory conditions. It provides valuable information to tailor treatments to individual patient needs.

Q: Can the IL-6 test be done at home?

A: No, the IL-6 test requires a blood sample, which is typically drawn in a healthcare setting by a trained professional. It cannot be performed at home.

Q: Are there any risks associated with the IL-6 test?

A: The IL-6 test is a routine blood test with minimal risks. Some individuals may experience slight bruising or soreness at the site where blood is drawn, but serious complications are rare.