Skip to content

Interleukin-1 beta (IL-1β) in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) by mass concentration

Published: August 9, 2026Updated: August 16, 2026

This test measures the amount of interleukin-1 beta, a protein involved in inflammation, found in your cerebrospinal fluid. It helps assess conditions affecting the brain and spinal cord.

Quick summary

["This test helps diagnose or monitor inflammatory or infectious processes in the central nervous system."]

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial TeamLast reviewed August 16, 2026Editorial policy

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
99767-6
Short code
Il1Beta CSF-mCnc
Synonyms
Il1Beta CSF-mCnc
Category
chemistry
Sample
csf
Container
Sterile tube
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
1-2 mL
Stability
Immediate analysis required, Refrigerated: 1h
Hemolysis max
200
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

Why Is This Test Done?

Your healthcare provider may order this test if you have symptoms like severe headaches, neck stiffness, fever, or neurological issues that could suggest conditions such as meningitis, encephalitis, or other inflammatory diseases of the brain or spinal cord. It can also be used to evaluate suspected spinal cord injuries or certain types of brain tumors.

What Does the Test Involve?

A small amount of cerebrospinal fluid is collected through a procedure called a lumbar puncture (spinal tap). The fluid is then sent to the lab for testing. The test measures the mass concentration of interleukin-1 beta, a protein that plays a key role in the body’s immune response.

What Are Possible Results?

Results are not typically provided as a single numeric range since reference values can vary by lab and clinical context. Elevated levels of interleukin-1 beta in CSF may indicate inflammation, infection, or other neurological conditions. Your healthcare provider will interpret the results in relation to your symptoms and medical history.

What Are the Risks?

The lumbar puncture carries a small risk of complications, including headache, infection, or temporary nerve pain. Most people experience minimal or no discomfort after the procedure.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IL-1β CSF

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Elevated Level Mean?
Elevated levels of interleukin-1 beta in CSF are often associated with inflammatory or infectious processes in the central nervous system, such as bacterial or viral meningitis, encephalitis, or multiple sclerosis. Your doctor will consider these results alongside other tests and symptoms to guide diagnosis and treatment.
What If My Levels Are Normal?
Normal results do not definitively rule out all neurological conditions, but they suggest that inflammation or infection is unlikely to be the primary cause of your symptoms. Further testing or evaluation may still be needed to determine the underlying issue.
How Often Is This Test Repeated?
Your doctor may repeat this test if symptoms persist or change, or if additional information is needed to guide treatment. Follow-up may depend on your specific diagnosis and ongoing medical care plan.
  1. 1
    MedlinePlus — Laboratory TestsSource
  2. 2
    Lab Tests OnlineSource
  3. 3
    Mayo Clinic — Tests & ProceduresSource

Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.

This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.

Medical Disclaimer

This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.

If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.

Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy