KL-6

What is a KL-6 Test? 

A KL-6 test is a simple blood test that measures the level of a protein called Krebs von den Lungen-6 in your bloodstream. This protein is naturally found on the surface of specific lung cells called type II pneumocytes. 

The test helps detect and monitor lung diseases, particularly interstitial lung diseases that cause inflammation and scarring of your lungs. 

What does the KL-6 Test measure? 

The KL-6 test provides valuable information about your lung health by measuring specific protein levels: 

• Lung injury detection: When lung cells are damaged, they release more KL-6 protein into your blood 

• Disease activity assessment: Higher levels suggest active inflammation or injury in your lungs 

• Treatment monitoring: Changes in KL-6 levels help track how well your treatment is working 

• Disease progression tracking: Rising levels may indicate worsening condition, while falling levels suggest improvement 

KL-6 Test: Who Needs It and Why It's Done 

What Symptoms May Call for a KL-6 Test? 

Your doctor may recommend this test if you experience symptoms associated with lung disease: 

• Dry chronic cough that doesn't produce mucus 

• Shortness of breath, especially during physical activity 

• Feeling very tired or fatigued without obvious cause 

• Chest discomfort or pain 

• Unexplained weight loss 

Who should get a KL-6 Test? 

This test is recommended for specific groups of people based on medical evaluation: 

• Patients with lung symptoms: Individuals showing signs that suggest interstitial lung disease 

• Diagnosed lung disease patients: People with confirmed conditions like idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis or sarcoidosis 

• High-risk individuals: Patients with autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis that may affect the lungs 

• Treatment monitoring patients: Those undergoing therapy for lung conditions or requiring pulmonary function tests for regular assessment 

Why is a KL-6 Test done?  

The KL-6 test provides doctors with crucial information about lung health, helping distinguish interstitial lung diseases from other respiratory conditions and assess current disease activity. 

Importance of a KL-6 Test 

The KL-6 test serves as a valuable biomarker that provides essential clinical information. It aids in diagnosis by strongly suggesting the presence of interstitial lung disease when levels are elevated, especially when combined with imaging studies and lung function tests. 

For patients with diagnosed lung conditions, tracking KL-6 levels over time helps monitor disease progression and treatment effectiveness. Increasing levels may alert doctors to disease flare-ups and health risks, while decreasing levels confirm that prescribed treatments are working to reduce inflammation and lung damage. 

The test also helps predict prognosis, as very high or persistently rising KL-6 levels can indicate more severe disease and guide doctors in planning appropriate treatment strategies. 

KL-6 Test Booking & Reports – Metropolis Healthcare India 

How to Book a KL-6 Test? 

1. Simple Online Booking 
   Booking can be done through the Metropolis Healthcare app or website. Select KL-6 Test, choose a convenient time slot, and provide your address for a blood test at home. You can also visit the nearest Metropolis Lab if you prefer to give the sample directly at the lab. 

1. Safe Home Sample Collection 
   Our trained phlebotomists ensure timely collection of your sample while strictly following all safety and hygiene protocols. 

1. Sample Tracking Updates 
   Stay informed at every step. From collection to testing, you can track your sample directly through the Metropolis Healthcare website. 

1. Accurate Laboratory Testing 
   Your sample is processed at our NABL & CAP accredited laboratories, where expert technicians ensure accurate results. 

1. Quick & Easy Reports 
   Receive your test reports promptly via email, WhatsApp, or by downloading them directly from the Metropolis Healthcare website or app. 

Is home sample collection for KL-6 Test available near you? 

Yes, home blood sample collection is available for the KL-6 test. Our trained phlebotomists follow strict safety protocols while collecting your blood sample in the comfort of your home. This service ensures accurate sample handling and maintains the integrity needed for reliable KL-6 test results. Metropolis Healthcare is committed to making quality diagnostic testing accessible and convenient for you, with our extensive network covering 750 towns across India. 

How Long Does It Take to Get a KL-6 Test Report? 

Reports are usually available on the same day by 9:00 PM once the sample reaches the pathology lab. 

Note: Reporting time may vary depending on your location. 

Where can I see or get KL-6 Test results? 

Test results from Metropolis Healthcare can be accessed through multiple convenient channels. You can log in to the Metropolis website using your credentials or use the Metropolis Healthcare app to view and download your reports. Additionally, test reports are sent via email or WhatsApp, and you also have the option to collect a physical copy directly from the lab. 

Interpreting KL-6 Test Results 

What Your KL-6 Test Results May Indicate 

This table explains what your KL-6 test values mean and their clinical significance: 

Conditions that May Affect KL-6 Test Accuracy 

Several factors can influence your KL-6 test results and should be discussed with your healthcare provider: 

• Severe dehydration can concentrate blood substances, potentially affecting protein measurements 

• Kidney disease may influence protein clearance from the blood, affecting KL-6 levels 

• Recent illness or infection can temporarily elevate inflammatory markers in the blood 

• Certain medications may interfere with the test, particularly those affecting lung function 

• Sample handling issues such as improper storage temperature can affect test accuracy 

• Laboratory variations in testing methods may cause slight differences in reference ranges 

How is a KL-6 Test Done? 

The KL-6 test follows a standard blood collection procedure that is quick and straightforward: 

• A healthcare professional cleans the area on your arm with an antiseptic wipe. 

• An elastic band is tied around your upper arm to make veins more visible. 

• A small needle is inserted into a vein to collect blood into a special tube. 

• The needle is removed and a cotton ball or bandage is applied to prevent bleeding. 

• Your blood sample is sent to the lab for analysis using chemiluminescence immunoassay. 

How Should You Prepare for a KL-6 Test? 

Preparing for your KL-6 test is simple and requires minimal effort: 

• No fasting required: You can eat and drink normally before the test 

• Continue regular medications: Take your usual medicines unless your doctor advises otherwise 

• Stay hydrated: Drink adequate water to ensure proper blood flow during sample collection 

• Inform about medications: Tell the healthcare professional about all medicines and supplements you take 

• Wear comfortable clothing: Choose clothes that allow easy access to your arm for blood collection 

Diseases that a KL-6 Test Can Help Detect 

The KL-6 test assists in diagnosing and monitoring various lung conditions: 

• Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF): A progressive scarring disease of the lungs 

• Sarcoidosis: An inflammatory disease affecting multiple organs, commonly the lungs 

• Hypersensitivity pneumonitis: Lung inflammation caused by inhaling certain substances 

• Connective tissue disease-related lung disease: Lung complications from autoimmune conditions 

• Drug-induced pneumonitis: Lung inflammation caused by certain medications or treatments 

• Acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS): Severe lung injury causing breathing difficulties 

KL-6 Test/Packages that You Can Book With Metropolis Healthcare 

Here are comprehensive testing options available to assess your lung health condition thoroughly: