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Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha (IL-2Rα) Serum Concentration

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

This test measures the amount of a protein (interleukin-2 receptor alpha) in your blood serum, which plays a role in immune response regulation.

Quick summary

["Your doctor may order this test to assess immune function or evaluate conditions affecting immune signaling."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
43171-8
Short code
Il2Recep SerPl-aCnc
Synonyms
Il2Recep SerPl-aCnc
Category
coagulation
Sample
serum
Container
Red-top tube (SST)
Units
N/A
Fasting
false
Population
adult
Sex
all
Age range
18–65 years
Specimen volume
5 mL
Stability
Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
Hemolysis max
500
Lipemia max
1000
Icterus max
500
TAT
4–24 hours
Order
routine

What Does This Test Measure?

Interleukin-2 receptor alpha (IL-2Rα) is a protein that helps regulate how your immune system responds to signals from cytokines like interleukin-2. High levels may indicate an overactive immune response, while lower levels could suggest immune suppression or certain autoimmune conditions.

Why Might Your Doctor Order This Test?

This test may be used in specific clinical scenarios, such as monitoring immune-related diseases (e.g., certain cancers, autoimmune disorders), evaluating responses to immunotherapy, or investigating unexplained immune dysfunction.

Common Uses in Healthcare

While not routinely ordered for general health screening, doctors may request this test in specialized cases, including assessing immune checkpoint inhibitors in cancer treatment or diagnosing rare immune deficiencies.

What to Expect Before the Test

No special preparation is typically needed. You may fast if instructed, but your doctor will provide specific guidance. A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in your arm.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

Interpreting Results Requires Medical Context

Short name

IL-2 Receptor Alpha

Frequently asked questions

What Are Normal Results?
There are no universally standardized reference ranges for IL-2Rα due to its variable expression in different conditions. Results are always evaluated in the context of your overall health, symptoms, and medical history.
How Long Does It Take to Get Results?
Results are usually available within 1–3 business days, depending on lab processing times and your healthcare provider’s workflow.
Can This Test Be Done at Home?
No, this test requires a blood sample collected by a healthcare professional in a clinical setting.
  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