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Serum/plasma mass concentration of interleukin-8 (IL-8)

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

This test measures the amount of interleukin-8, a protein your body produces in response to injury, infection, or inflammation.

Quick summary

["IL-8 helps your immune system fight off infections and signals other immune cells to the area of concern."]

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

Key facts at a glance

LOINC
33211-4
Short code
Il8 SerPl-mCnc
Synonyms
Il8 SerPl-mCnc
Category
chemistry
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 Is Interleukin-8?

Interleukin-8 (IL-8) is a type of signaling protein called a cytokine. It plays a key role in attracting white blood cells to areas of inflammation or infection. Your body releases IL-8 in response to stress, such as illness, injury, or chronic conditions like arthritis or inflammatory bowel disease.

Why Might You Need This Test?

Doctors may order an IL-8 test to diagnose or monitor conditions involving inflammation, infections, or immune responses. It can help assess how your body is responding to treatments for conditions like sepsis, autoimmune diseases, or certain cancers.

Common Uses of IL-8 Testing

This test is often used in conjunction with other diagnostic tools to evaluate symptoms like fever, swelling, or persistent pain that may indicate an underlying inflammatory or infectious process.

How Is the Test Performed?

A blood sample is taken from a vein in your arm. The sample is then sent to a lab where it is analyzed to measure the IL-8 protein levels. No special preparation is needed, but you may want to avoid strenuous activity or eating heavy meals before the test.

Clinical interpretation

How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.

◆Associated findings1

Short name

IL-8 Level

Frequently asked questions

What Does an Elevated IL-8 Level Mean?
Elevated IL-8 levels often suggest an active inflammatory response or infection. High levels can be seen in conditions like sepsis, severe infections, autoimmune diseases, or certain types of cancer. However, IL-8 can also be elevated in response to minor injuries or infections, so results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and symptoms.
What Does a Normal IL-8 Level Indicate?
Normal IL-8 levels typically indicate that your body is not experiencing an active inflammatory response or infection. However, IL-8 can fluctuate based on various factors, including recent illness, stress, or medications. Your doctor will consider these factors when evaluating your results.
Can IL-8 Levels Change Over Time?
Yes, IL-8 levels can change depending on your health status, ongoing treatments, and other medical conditions. Regular monitoring may be necessary if you have a chronic condition or are undergoing treatment for an inflammatory or infectious disease.
  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