Interleukin 17

High levels of Interleukin 17 (IL-17) in your body could indicate that your immune system is working overtime. This could be due to an ongoing infection, where IL-17 is actively fighting off harmful bacteria or fungi. However, it could also mean that IL-17 is mistakenly attacking your own body, causing inflammation and damage. This is often seen in autoimmune diseases like psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis. Certain medications, such as immunosuppressants, can also affect IL-17 levels. Therefore, a high IL-17 level could be a sign of an overactive immune response, either due to an infection, an autoimmune condition, or a reaction to medication.

Symptoms of high levels of IL-17 could include inflammation, redness, swelling, and pain in the affected areas. In the case of autoimmune diseases, symptoms might also include skin rashes, joint pain, and fatigue.

Low levels of Interleukin 17 (IL-17) in your body could mean that your immune system might not be as strong in fighting off infections. This substance is like a bodyguard, warding off harmful intruders like bacteria and fungi. If your IL-17 levels are low, it could mean that your body's defense system isn't as robust as it should be. This could be due to a variety of reasons, such as certain medications that suppress the immune system, like corticosteroids or chemotherapy drugs. It could also be due to specific health conditions that weaken the immune system, like HIV/AIDS. However, low IL-17 levels aren't always a bad thing. In some cases, it could mean that your body isn't overreacting and causing unnecessary inflammation, which can lead to conditions like psoriasis or rheumatoid arthritis.

Symptoms of low levels of Interleukin 17 could include frequent infections or illnesses, as your body might not be as effective in fighting off harmful bacteria and fungi.