Interleukin-12p70 blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Interleukins are cytokines, small proteins that immune cells use to communicate. Interleukin-12p70 (IL-12p70) is the active form of interleukin-12, made mainly by immune cells such as macrophages and dendritic cells. It encourages T cells and natural killer cells to respond to viruses and bacteria that live inside cells, and it promotes the release of interferon gamma.

IL-12 has been studied in infection, autoimmune and inflammatory conditions. As a blood test, it is an emerging, specialist marker: levels in healthy people are often very low, it is not part of routine NHS care, and it has limited use as a stand-alone screen. It is most meaningful alongside established tests such as CRP and a full blood count.

The price includes the blood sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result with you, and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• Your practitioner has recommended an immune signalling marker as part of an in-depth assessment.
• You live with an inflammatory or autoimmune condition and want additional information.
• You are reviewing a group of interleukins together.
• You understand this is a research-based marker and would like a baseline value.

Understanding your result

Your report shows your IL-12p70 value with the laboratory reference range. A raised level may reflect active immune signalling, which can be seen with infection or inflammatory conditions. Because levels can change quickly and many results fall near the lower limit the laboratory can measure, small differences are not usually meaningful.

There is no agreed way to use IL-12p70 alone to diagnose or monitor a condition. Your practitioner will interpret it in context with your symptoms and other results. Any value outside the range is something to talk through, rather than a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is needed. If you can, test when you have been well, without infections or vaccinations, for at least two weeks, as these influence immune signalling. Tell us about steroid, immune-modifying or biological medicines you take. We will confirm any further preparation when you book.

IL-12p70 is part of the immune signalling markers in Omnia Signature. For a more established inflammation picture, Omnia Essential Plus includes CRP and a full blood count. You can also see every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is an interleukin-12p70 test in Chiswick?

An interleukin-12p70 blood test at Omnia Lifestyle costs £109. This includes the sample at our Chiswick clinic, laboratory analysis, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

What does IL-12p70 do?

It helps switch on parts of the immune system that fight infections inside cells, particularly by activating T cells and natural killer cells.

Is this test used routinely by the NHS?

No. Interleukin testing is mainly used in research and specialist settings, so it is best viewed as additional detail rather than a first-line test.

Can IL-12p70 diagnose an immune condition?

No. Immune conditions are diagnosed with a clinical assessment and validated tests, usually by a specialist.