Inflammation Marker Tests

Inflammation marker tests are laboratory tests that measure certain substances in the blood or other bodily fluids that indicate the presence of inflammation in the body, according to the NIH. These tests can be used to help diagnose and monitor various medical conditions that are associated with inflammation.

What conditions are inflammation marker tests used to diagnose?

Inflammation marker tests can be used to diagnose a wide range of medical conditions, according to the NIH, including:

• Infections
• Autoimmune disorders
• Inflammatory bowel disease
• Arthritis
• Certain types of cancer

What are the different types of inflammation marker tests?

There are several types of inflammation marker tests, as outlined by the NIH, including:

• C-reactive protein (CRP)
• Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR)
• Interleukin-6 (IL-6)
• Tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-alpha)
• White blood cell count (WBC)

How are inflammation marker tests performed?

Inflammation marker tests are usually performed by taking a blood sample from a vein in the arm or a fingerstick, according to the Mayo Clinic. Some tests, such as the WBC count, can also be done using a sample of urine or other bodily fluids.

When should I get an inflammation marker test?

Inflammation marker tests are usually performed when there is a suspected medical condition that is known to result from inflammation, according to the NIH. Some common reasons why you may want to consider an inflammation marker test include:

• To help diagnose or monitor autoimmune disorders, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus.
• To help diagnose or monitor inflammatory bowel diseases, such as Crohn's disease or ulcerative colitis.
• To help diagnose or monitor infections, such as pneumonia or sepsis.
• To help monitor the effectiveness of treatment for medical conditions that involve inflammation.
• Part of the evaluation of the risk of heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions.

What to expect with an inflammation marker test

An inflammation marker test is a relatively simple blood test, and there is usually no special preparation required, according to the Mayo Clinic. You may be asked to fast for a certain amount of time before the test, depending on the specific test and the laboratory that performs it.

The test involves drawing a small amount of blood from a vein in your arm or with a fingerstick. The healthcare provider will clean the area with an antiseptic and insert a needle to collect the blood sample. After the blood draw, the healthcare provider or lab technician will bandage the venipuncture site and give you instructions on aftercare.

Understanding your inflammation marker tests results

How long does it take to get results from inflammation marker tests?

The time it takes to get results from an inflammation marker test can vary depending on the type of test and the laboratory that performs it. In general, results are usually available within a few days. Your doctor or the laboratory where your testing is performed can give you more details on when to expect your results.

Finding an inflammation marker test

Inflammation marker tests can be performed at a variety of healthcare facilities, including hospitals, walk-in clinics, urgent care clinics, and primary care clinics. Your provider can order the test for you and direct you to a facility that performs the test.

You can search Solv’s database to find providers near you or book an inflammation marker test yourself.

Can I get an at-home inflammation marker test?

Yes, there are at-home inflammation marker tests available, although they may not be as accurate or reliable as tests performed in a healthcare facility.

At-home inflammation marker tests typically involve collecting a blood sample or other bodily fluid using a test kit that you purchase from a drugstore, or online. The sample is then mailed back to a laboratory for analysis, and the results are provided to you by mail, email, or online portal.

It's important to note that at-home tests may not be covered by insurance, and the cost may vary depending on the provider. Additionally, some at-home tests may not be approved by regulatory agencies, like the FDA, and may not be as accurate or reliable as tests performed in a healthcare facility.

Cost of inflammation marker testing

The cost of inflammation marker testing can vary depending on a number of factors, including the specific test ordered, the healthcare facility or laboratory where the test is performed, and whether or not the test is covered by insurance.

Since inflammation marker tests are not routine, they may be slightly more expensive. The average cost of inflammation marker testing in the United States is currently between $49 and $184.