Interleukin-17A blood test in Chiswick
Interleukin-17A (IL-17A) is an inflammatory signalling protein linked with psoriasis, psoriatic arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis. It is a specialist test used for follow-up of inflammation, reviewed with a practitioner.
What the test measures
IL-17A is a cytokine made mainly by a group of immune cells called Th17 cells. It helps defend the skin and mucous membranes against bacteria and fungi by drawing in neutrophils and prompting tissues to make antimicrobial proteins. When it is overactive, it drives the inflammation seen in psoriasis and some types of inflammatory arthritis, and medicines that block IL-17A are now used to treat these conditions.
Despite its clear role in disease, the level of IL-17A in the blood is not used in routine NHS practice to diagnose or monitor these conditions. Levels are often very low and can vary for many reasons, so the test is best seen as a specialist marker read with other tests and a clinical assessment, with limited use as a stand-alone screen.
The price includes your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a review of your result with an Omnia practitioner, and a GP feedback report on request.
Who it is for
- You have psoriasis or psoriatic arthritis and your specialist wants extra information on inflammation.
- You are reviewing joint or back stiffness with a practitioner alongside standard tests.
- You are having an in-depth wellness check that includes cytokines such as IL-17A.
- You would like to understand what IL-17A can and cannot show before discussing treatment options.
Understanding your result
Your report shows your IL-17A level with the laboratory reference range. In many people the level is very low or below the limit the test can measure. A raised level may fit with active inflammation, particularly involving the skin or joints, but it can also rise with infection and is not specific to one condition.
A value outside the range is a reason to talk things through, not a diagnosis. Your practitioner reads it alongside your symptoms and markers such as ESR or CRP, and can suggest whether a review with your GP or a rheumatologist or dermatologist would help.
Preparing for your test
Fasting is not required for IL-17A. If you take biological medicines, steroids or other immune treatments, tell us the name and when you last had a dose, as they can change the level. Mention any recent infection too.
IL-17A is included in Omnia Signature with a wide range of other markers. For a general inflammation check, a Full Blood Count is a good foundation. Look at every blood test and price in Chiswick for more choices.
Questions
How much is an Interleukin-17A test in Chiswick?
The Interleukin-17A test costs £129 at Omnia Lifestyle. This includes the blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, laboratory analysis, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.
Can IL-17A diagnose psoriasis or arthritis?
No. These conditions are diagnosed through clinical examination, imaging and established tests. IL-17A gives supporting information only.
Does an IL-17 blocking medicine affect the result?
It can. Some medicines bind IL-17A in the blood, which may change what the test measures, so always tell us what you take.
How is IL-17A different from IL-17F?
They are closely related cytokines from the same family with overlapping roles. Some treatments block one, others block both.
