IL-6 levels
acute infection, obesity, ’, inflammation, infection
ACUTE INFECTION, INFLAMMATION, INFECTION, OBESITY
We expect some 30%–50% of patient participants to have evidence of inflammation in the blood (IL-6≥0.7 pg/mL). This is not a cause for concern. Reasons for elevated IL-6 in the absence of an acute infection or chronic inflammatory illness could include obesity, smoking, alcohol use and lack of exercise, so knowledge of ‘inflammation status’ may prompt participants to adopt a healthier lifestyle. If the serum IL-6 level is high (ie, IL-6≥0.7 pg/mL) along with elevated CRP (>20 mg/L) without any apparent explanation, such as infection or chronic inflammatory illness, we will inform the participant’s GP and the participant will be excluded from the study.