Interleukin-6 (IL-6)*
At IntroLab, a leading laboratory in Belgrade, we perform Interleukin-6 (IL-6) analysis as part of immunological blood tests. The Interleukin 6 (IL6) analysis is useful in assessing patients who exhibit symptoms or are suspected of having various health conditions.
What is Interleukin 6 (IL-6)?
Interleukin 6 (IL-6) is a protein that increases in the body in response to infections and tissue injuries. This protein plays an important role in stimulating the acute phase response and mediating the increased production of antibodies.
The presence of inflammation in the body, whether acute or chronic, results in increased production of IL-6. This protein acts as a signaling molecule that sends information throughout the body, playing a crucial role in regulating the immune response.
When is the Interleukin 6 (IL-6) analysis useful?
Measuring IL-6 levels can provide important information about the presence and extent of inflammation in the body. It is useful in diagnosing and monitoring various conditions, including:
- Systemic infection: The IL-6 analysis can be useful in assessing the presence of systemic infections, such as sepsis or other serious bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
- Localized infections: The usefulness of the IL-6 analysis is particularly highlighted in assessing localized infections, such as joint infections that may be associated with rheumatoid arthritis or other inflammatory conditions.
- Chronic inflammatory disorders: This blood test can help diagnose and monitor chronic inflammatory disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, ankylosing spondylitis, or inflammatory bowel disease.
Sample and preparation: Interleukin-6 (IL-6)*
- Sample
- Venous blood
- Sampling
- Drawing blood
- Result in
- 1 day
- Preparation
- No special preparation is required.
- Category
- Immunology
Frequently asked questions
What does an interleukin-6 (IL-6) test show and when is it ordered?
An Interleukin-6 (IL-6) test shows whether there is inflammation in the body and how pronounced it is. IL-6 is a protein whose production rises with infections, tissue injury and acute or chronic inflammation. Doctors most often order it when sepsis or another systemic infection is suspected, for localized infections such as joint infections, and to monitor chronic inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, lupus, ankylosing spondylitis or inflammatory bowel disease. At IntroLab laboratory, IL-6 is measured from venous blood, and the result is interpreted by a doctor.
How much does an IL-6 blood test cost and do I need to prepare?
The Interleukin-6 (IL-6) test at IntroLab laboratory costs 3,550 RSD, and results are ready in 1 day. No special preparation is needed, so you do not have to fast. The sample is venous blood, drawn at Južni bulevar 116 in Vračar, Belgrade. Because IL-6 is a marker of inflammation, the doctor usually interprets it together with other findings rather than as a standalone test.