Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Serum

• Test Name: Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Serum Test
• Test Type: Serological test to detect antibodies
• Specimen Required: Blood sample (serum)
• Methodology: The test detects the presence of antibodies against Streptolysin O, a toxin produced by Group A Streptococcus bacteria.
• Purpose: Evaluate if a person has had a recent streptococcal infection, which can be associated with complications like rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.

• Diagnosis: Helps in diagnosing recent infections caused by Group A Streptococcus, especially when a person shows signs of complications.
• Disease Monitoring: Assists in monitoring streptococcal-related conditions like rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.
• Assessment of Immune Response: Determines if the body has produced antibodies in response to streptococcal infection.

Components:

• Sample Collection: A blood sample is collected to obtain serum for antibody detection.
• ASO Antibody Quantification: The ASO titer is measured to determine the concentration of antibodies against Streptolysin O.
• Reference Ranges: Results are compared against the reference range, with typical normal values being <200 IU/mL for adults and <100 IU/mL for children.

• Normal Range: An ASO titer below the reference range indicates the absence of a recent streptococcal infection or a response to treatment.
• Elevated ASO Levels: High ASO titers suggest a recent or ongoing infection with Group A Streptococcus.
• Clinical Relevance: Elevated levels may indicate complications of streptococcal infections, such as rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation.

• Quantitative Measurement: Results are provided as a quantitative ASO titer in IU/mL.
• Turnaround Time: Test results are typically available within 1 to 2 days.
• Reporting: Results include the ASO titer value and a reference range for comparison.
• Clinical Decisions: High titers may prompt further evaluation or treatment for post-streptococcal complications.

Q. What is the Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Serum Test?
The ASO Serum Test detects antibodies against Streptolysin O, a toxin produced by Group A Streptococcus bacteria, indicating a recent streptococcal infection
 

Q. Why is the ASO test important?
This test helps diagnose streptococcal infections and their complications, such as rheumatic fever or kidney disease and monitors the body’s immune response
 

Q. How is the ASO test performed?
A blood sample is taken, and the serum is tested for ASO antibodies, which indicate if the body has recently responded to a strep infection
 

Q. What do high ASO levels mean?
Elevated ASO levels suggest a recent or ongoing Group A Streptococcus infection, which may be associated with complications like rheumatic fever
 

Q. What does a normal ASO result indicate?
A normal ASO level usually means there has been no recent streptococcal infection, or the infection occurred too long ago for antibodies to still be present
 

Q. How do I prepare for the ASO test?
No special preparation is required for this test, though you should follow any specific instructions provided by your healthcare provider
 

Q. What happens if my ASO test result is abnormal?
If your ASO levels are high, your doctor may recommend further tests or treatments to address possible streptococcal complications or related health conditions