MCP-1 blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

Monocyte chemotactic protein-1, also known as MCP-1 or CCL2, belongs to a family of signalling proteins called chemokines. Its main job is to attract monocytes, a type of white blood cell, out of the bloodstream and into tissues where there is injury or inflammation. Once there, monocytes mature into cells that help clear damage and fight infection.

Researchers have studied MCP-1 in conditions where long-running, low-level inflammation plays a part, including the build-up of fatty plaques in artery walls, some kidney conditions and some metabolic and autoimmune disorders. As an emerging marker, it is mainly used alongside other tests and a clinical assessment, and it is of limited value as a screen on its own. It is not part of routine NHS testing.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request. No GP referral is needed.

Who it is for

• You are working with a practitioner on a wider assessment of inflammation and want additional detail.
• You already have a raised CRP or other inflammatory marker and would like a more specialist view.
• You are interested in markers linked to blood vessel health and understand they are not a diagnostic test.
• Your specialist has asked for MCP-1 as part of follow-up.
• You would like to repeat MCP-1 after a previous result to look at a trend.

Understanding your result

MCP-1 levels can rise with infection, recent injury or surgery, active inflammatory conditions, raised blood pressure, diabetes and reduced kidney function, among other factors. Because so many things can influence it, a raised value does not point to one specific condition. A level within the range is reassuring in context but does not exclude other health problems.

Your report shows the laboratory reference range. Your practitioner will interpret the result together with your history and more established markers, and a result outside the range is a prompt for discussion, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

No fasting is required. Try to book when you are well, as a cold, infection or recent strenuous exercise can temporarily raise inflammatory signals. Tell us about any recent illness, vaccinations, surgery and the medicines you take, including steroids or anti-inflammatory drugs, and we will confirm any further preparation when you book.

MCP-1 is one of the specialist immune and vascular markers included in Omnia Signature, which reads it alongside established heart, metabolic and inflammation tests. To compare options, see every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is an MCP-1 blood test in Chiswick?

The MCP-1 test is £109. The price covers your sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Can MCP-1 diagnose heart disease or an autoimmune condition?

No. MCP-1 is a research and specialist marker. It can add context, but heart and autoimmune conditions are assessed using symptoms, examination and established tests.

How is MCP-1 different from CRP?

CRP is a well-established general marker of inflammation made by the liver. MCP-1 is a signalling protein that directs immune cells, so it reflects a different, more specific step in the inflammatory process and is far less commonly used.

Should I repeat the test?

Only if your practitioner feels a trend would be useful, for example after changes to lifestyle or treatment. A single result is best read in the context of your other tests.