This lab test by Access Medical Labs is a single-marker test measuring Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (IL-2Ra/CD25).
This test is designed to measure the levels of soluble IL-2Ra/CD25, a molecule that plays a significant role in the immune system, supporting cell proliferation and survival, and significant in ymphocyte (a type of white blood cell) activation and growth.
Elevated levels can be indicative of certain autoimmune disorders, chronic infections, and some cancers. The test's quick turnaround time and the straightforward nature of sample collection (requiring no special preparation and completion in one day) make it a practical choice for monitoring these conditions.
Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (sIL-2Rα) is a protein that is released into the bloodstream by activated immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes. It is a soluble form of the membrane-bound Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (IL-2Rα) found on the surface of immune cells.
IL-2Rα plays a crucial role in the immune response by binding to Interleukin-2 (IL-2), a cytokine that supports the growth and activation of immune cells. When immune cells are activated, IL-2Rα is shed from the cell surface and released as sIL-2Rα.
The measurement of sIL-2Rα levels in the blood can provide valuable information about immune system activity and inflammation. Elevated levels of sIL-2Rα are often observed in various autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, and multiple sclerosis. It can also be elevated in certain types of cancers, including lymphomas and leukemias.
A Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain lab test measures the concentration of sIL-2Rα in the blood, helping healthcare providers assess immune system function and monitor disease activity in certain conditions.
The Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (sIL-2Rα) test is typically ordered by healthcare providers to evaluate certain medical conditions and monitor disease progression or response to treatment. The test is commonly used in the following scenarios:
Autoimmune Disorders: Patients suspected of having autoimmune diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, systemic lupus erythematosus, or multiple sclerosis may undergo sIL-2Rα testing. Elevated levels of sIL-2Rα can indicate increased immune system activation and help in the diagnosis and management of these conditions.
Lymphoproliferative Disorders: sIL-2Rα levels are often elevated in lymphoproliferative disorders, including Hodgkin's lymphoma, non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, and adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma. Monitoring sIL-2Rα levels can aid in disease staging, assessing response to therapy, and detecting relapse.
Solid Tumors: Some solid tumors, particularly those derived from lymphoid cells, can also cause elevated sIL-2Rα levels. Testing for sIL-2Rα may be useful in the diagnosis, staging, and monitoring of these malignancies.
Transplant Rejection: After organ transplantation, sIL-2Rα levels can be measured to assess the risk of rejection. Higher levels may indicate an ongoing immune response against the transplanted organ.
Infectious Diseases: In certain infectious diseases, such as viral hepatitis, HIV infection, and Epstein-Barr virus-associated diseases, sIL-2Rα levels may be elevated. Monitoring sIL-2Rα can provide information about the immune response to these infections.
It is important to note that the decision to order a sIL-2Rα test should be made by a healthcare provider based on the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and other relevant factors.
A high level of Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (sIL-2Rα) in the blood indicates increased immune system activity. The IL-2 receptor is a protein found on the surface of certain immune cells, including T cells and natural killer cells. When these cells are activated, they release sIL-2Rα into the bloodstream.
Elevated levels of sIL-2Rα can be seen in various conditions, including autoimmune diseases (such as rheumatoid arthritis, multiple sclerosis, and systemic lupus erythematosus), certain infections (such as viral infections like HIV or Epstein-Barr virus), and certain types of cancer (such as lymphoma and leukemia). It can also be seen in transplant rejection and graft-versus-host disease. [1]
The increase in sIL-2Rα is a result of immune system activation and the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines. It serves as a marker of immune system activity and can be used to assess disease activity, monitor treatment response, and has prognostic value with disease progression in certain conditions.
However, it is important to note that a high sIL-2Rα level alone is not diagnostic of a specific condition. It should be interpreted in conjunction with other clinical findings and laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause. Consulting with a healthcare professional or a functional medicine practitioner is recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and interpretation of test results.
A low level of Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (sIL-2Rα) in the blood indicates a potential decrease in immune system activity. The sIL-2Rα is a protein that is released by activated immune cells, particularly T lymphocytes, in response to inflammation or infection. It acts as a marker of immune system activation.
When the immune system is activated, it produces more T lymphocytes, which release sIL-2Rα into the bloodstream. Therefore, a low level of sIL-2Rα suggests a decreased number or activity of T lymphocytes, which can be caused by various factors, including:
Immunosuppression: Certain medications, such as corticosteroids or immunosuppressive drugs, can suppress the immune system, production of IL-2, and reduce the levels of sIL-2Rα.
Chronic infections: In some chronic infections, the immune system may become exhausted or overwhelmed, leading to decreased production of IL-2 and a decrease in sIL-2Rα levels.
Autoimmune diseases: Some autoimmune conditions, such as systemic lupus erythematosus or rheumatoid arthritis, can cause immune system dysfunction, decreased IL-2 production, and lower sIL-2Rα levels.
Malnutrition: Inadequate intake of essential nutrients, particularly protein, can impair immune system function and reduce production of IL-2 and sIL-2Rα levels.
It is important to note that interpreting sIL-2Rα levels should be done in conjunction with other clinical information and laboratory tests to determine the underlying cause and guide appropriate treatment. Consulting with a healthcare professional, such as a functional medicine practitioner or immunologist, is recommended for a comprehensive evaluation and personalized management plan.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5728644/
This is a single-marker test measuring Soluble Interleukin-2 Receptor Alpha Chain (IL-2Ra/CD25).
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