The Interleukin 6 (IL-6) test measures the amount of IL-6 protein in your blood. IL-6 is a cytokine—a type of signaling molecule—that plays an important role in immune responses and inflammation.

IL-6 levels can rise during infections, autoimmune disorders, and inflammatory conditions. This test helps assess inflammation severity and is particularly used in evaluating conditions like Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS), sepsis, and COVID-19 complications.

Orange Health Labs offers convenient at-home collection for IL-6 testing with fast reporting.

The Interleukin 6 (IL-6) test cost is around: Rs. 3200/-. The test price basically includes home sample collection also varies accordingly to the cities,

No special preparation is needed for the IL-6 test. Fasting is not required.

Who Should Get This Test?

• Individuals with suspected sepsis, SIRS, or COVID-19 complications

• Patients showing signs of systemic inflammation

• Individuals being monitored for autoimmune disorders or cardiovascular risk

During the Test:

• A phlebotomist will draw a blood sample from your arm

• The process takes less than five minutes and may involve mild discomfort

After the Test:

• The sample is sent to the lab for processing

• Results are typically available within 48 to 168 hours

IL-6 testing is typically used when additional insights into inflammation are needed—especially after a CRP test shows elevated values.

Your doctor may recommend an IL-6 test if:

• You have symptoms of a severe inflammatory condition or infection

• You're being evaluated for COVID-19, sepsis, or autoimmune diseases

• Other inflammatory markers like CRP need confirmation or elaboration

It’s often used in critical care and emergency settings to predict complications and guide treatment.

Interpreting IL-6 test results helps identify the presence and severity of inflammation.

Normal Range:

• Less than 5 pg/mL

Higher values of IL-6 are associated with,

• Systemic inflammation or immune activation

• Increased risk of complications from sepsis, pneumonia, or COVID-19

• Autoimmune disorders like rheumatoid arthritis or lupus

Very high levels (>300 pg/mL) can indicate a serious risk of multiple organ dysfunction or mortality, especially in critically ill patients.

This test is often performed alongside others like:

• Complete Haemogram

• CRP

• Blood or Urine Culture

Consult your doctor for interpretation and further action based on clinical condition.