The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titre is a blood test designed to detect recent infections caused by group A streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. It measures the concentration of ASO antibodies, which the immune system produces in response to the enzyme streptolysin O, a virulence factor of GAS. Typically, ASO antibodies appear about a week after infection and can persist for months. The test involves drawing a blood sample, which is analyzed using nephelometry to assess the level of ASO antibodies. Patients are usually advised to fast for six hours before the test and inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking. A positive result indicates a recent or past GAS infection, while a negative result suggests no recent infection, though it may take weeks for antibodies to peak. The ASO titre is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring complications like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis, despite its limitations in detecting current infections.
The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titre is a blood test designed to detect recent infections caused by group A streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. It measures the concentration of ASO antibodies, which the immune system produces in response to the enzyme streptolysin O, a virulence factor of GAS. Typically, ASO antibodies appear about a week after infection and can persist for months. The test involves drawing a blood sample, which is analyzed using nephelometry to assess the level of ASO antibodies. Patients are usually advised to fast for six hours before the test and inform their healthcare provider about any medications they are taking. A positive result indicates a recent or past GAS infection, while a negative result suggests no recent infection, though it may take weeks for antibodies to peak. The ASO titre is crucial for diagnosing and monitoring complications like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis, despite its limitations in detecting current infections.
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The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titre test is crucial for identifying recent infections by group A streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. It measures ASO antibodies, which appear about a week post-infection and linger for months. The test involves:
- Blood sample collection
- Nephelometry to assess antibody levels
Preparation includes fasting and disclosing medications. Results interpretation:
- Negative: No recent infection, but early testing may require repetition.
- Positive: Indicates recent or past infection, not necessarily active.
Clinical significance includes diagnosing conditions like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis. Limitations involve delayed antibody response and potential false results. Additional tests may be needed for comprehensive diagnosis.
The Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titre test is essential for identifying recent infections by group A streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. It measures antibodies against streptolysin O, a toxin from GAS. Key points include:
- Test Procedure: Blood is drawn and analyzed using nephelometry to detect ASO antibodies.
- Preparation: Patients should fast for six hours and disclose any medications.
- Results Interpretation:
- Negative: No recent infection, but early testing may require repetition.
- Positive: Indicates past infection; not necessarily active.
- Clinical Use: Diagnoses conditions like rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis.
- Limitations: Delayed antibody response and potential false results necessitate additional tests for accuracy.
Understanding test results is crucial for interpreting the Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titre. This blood test measures ASO antibodies, indicating a recent group A streptococcus (GAS) infection. Here's what the results mean:
- Negative Result: Suggests no recent GAS infection, but early testing may not detect antibodies. Retesting in a few weeks might be necessary.
- Positive Result: Indicates a recent or past GAS infection. Elevated ASO levels show an immune response, but not necessarily an active infection.
Understanding these results helps in diagnosing and managing potential complications from GAS infections.
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