MedicalTerminology DB

Meaning of IL-11: One of a group of related proteins made by leukocytes (white blood cells) and other cells in the body.

Definition of IL-11

One of a group of related proteins made by leukocytes (white blood cells) and other cells in the body. IL-11 is made by support cells in the bone marrow. It causes the growth of several types of blood cells. Oprelvekin (IL-11 made in the laboratory) is used as a biological response modifier to increase the number of platelets, especially in patients receiving chemotherapy for cancer. IL-11 is a type of cytokine. Also called interleukin-11.

Written and maintained by James Murray Last updated July 21, 2026 Educational reference, not medical advice. Read the limitations.

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