Interleukin 2

High levels of Interleukin 2 (IL-2) in your body could suggest that your immune system is overactive, which might be a sign of an autoimmune condition. Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis or lupus, occur when your immune system mistakenly attacks your own cells, thinking they're foreign invaders. This mistaken attack triggers the production of more IL-2 to rally more fighter cells, leading to higher levels of IL-2 in your body. Certain medications, like immune-suppressing drugs used after organ transplants, can also cause high IL-2 levels as they stimulate the immune system to prevent organ rejection. Additionally, high IL-2 levels could indicate an ongoing infection, as your body produces more IL-2 to fight off the invading bacteria or viruses.

Symptoms of high levels of IL-2 could include fatigue, joint pain, skin rashes, and fever, which are common signs of an overactive immune system.

Low levels of Interleukin 2, or IL-2, could suggest that your immune system isn't performing at its best. IL-2 is like the coach of your body's defense team, so if there's not enough of it, your body's fighter cells might not be as active or effective as they should be in protecting you from infections and diseases. This could be due to an autoimmune disease, where your body mistakenly fights its own cells, or it could be a sign that your immune system is weakened, making you more prone to catching infections. Certain medications, like corticosteroids or immunosuppressants, can also lower IL-2 levels. Additionally, conditions like HIV/AIDS can also result in lower IL-2 levels.

Symptoms of low levels of Interleukin 2 may not be easily noticeable, as they can often mimic general signs of illness. These could include frequent infections, prolonged recovery from illnesses, fatigue, and unexplained weight loss.