What is IL-6?
an inflammation signal
IL-6 is a signalling molecule the body releases during inflammation and stress. Elevated values are seen in infection, chronic inflammation, and some autoimmune conditions.
Interleukin-6 is a cytokine produced by immune cells that drives the liver to make CRP. Clinically it is used to track sepsis, inflammatory conditions, and the course of some cancers. It reflects acute inflammation faster than CRP because IL-6 rises and falls more quickly.
Test facts
- Unit
- pg/mL
- Sample
- Serum
- Fasting
- No fasting needed
- Turnaround
- 3 days
What does low IL-6 mean?
Low IL-6 is normal and usually desirable. It indicates no ongoing systemic inflammation.
What does high IL-6 mean?
Elevated IL-6 occurs in infection, chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, obesity, and some cancers. Read alongside CRP and the clinical context.
Panels that measure IL-6
- Inflammation
More markers in the same area
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This is general information about the marker, not an assessment of your values and not medical advice. Last updated: May 2026.