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Interleukin-6 (IL-6) Unit Converter
Interleukin-6 (IL-6) is a critical pro-inflammatory cytokine (signaling protein) produced by macrophages and T-cells. It serves as a central mediator of the body’s acute-phase response, stimulating the liver to produce acute-phase proteins like CRP and fibrinogen.
Clinically, IL-6 is used as a highly sensitive and early marker of systemic inflammation and sepsis. Markedly elevated levels are prognostic for adverse outcomes in critical illness, including severe COVID-19 and septic shock (cytokine storm). Because active concentrations are very low, results are reported in picograms per milliliter (pg/mL) or picomoles per liter (pmol/L).
[Image of acute phase protein response]SI Units / Molar
RecommendedPicomoles per liter (Standard International).
Mass Equivalents
Clinical Context
Reference Range (Healthy): Serum IL-6 levels are normally very low, typically < 5 pg/mL (< 5 ng/L).
Levels > 100 pg/mL are often seen in severe inflammatory states or sepsis. IL-6 has a very short half-life (1–2 hours), making it an excellent marker for monitoring disease activity and response to anti-inflammatory therapy. The conversion factor relies on MW 21,000 g/mol: 1 ng/L ≈ 47.6 pmol/L.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., pg/mL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (including the Molar SI unit pmol/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. Note that pg/mL and ng/L are numerically identical (1:1).
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Yes. 1 pg/mL is exactly equal to 1 ng/L.
IL-6 is released very quickly (within hours) in response to infection, making it a valuable early indicator of sepsis risk and prognosis before CRP levels peak.