ASO (Anti streptolysin O)
Streptococcus bacteria can wreak havoc on our health, causing a range of infections from strep throat to more serious conditions like rheumatic fever. One essential tool in the diagnosis and management of these infections is the Anti-Streptolysin O (ASO) test. This test measures the antibodies your body produces in response to a streptococcal infection. In this guide, we will take you on a journey through the ASO test, demystifying its importance, procedure, and implications for your health.
ASO (Anti streptolysin O): ASO titer means -Anti streptolysin-O titer, ex. antibody against streptolysin-O antigen. ASO antibody appears in the blood following infection with streptococci that produces streptolysin O.
Function: - ASO blocks hemolysis by streptolysin-O
Clinical importance: In throat infection, ASO titer rises but in skin infection, ASO titer does not rise because the antibody against streptolysin-O is destroyed by skin lipase.
Signification importance :
ASO titer is significant when it is more than 200 units (toad unit)
Reagent preparation and stability:
All the components are ready for use.
Do not use reagents over the expiration date. If appear particles smoky, cloudy turbidity do not use.
Specimen: Fresh serum. Stable 8 days at 2-8 C or 3 months at -20 ° C. Do not use hemolysis or lipemic samples.
Material: General laboratory equipment
ASO Latex Reagent
Test Procedure: Qualitative method-
1. The reagents and sample to reach room temperature. The sensitivity of the test may be reduced at low temperatures in the place.
2. Place 50uL of the sample in a circle and add one drop of each Positive and Negative control into separate circles on the slide test.
3. Shake the ASO-latex reagent gently before using and add a drop of this reagent next to the sample to be tested mix well.
4. Mix both drops with a stirrer, spreading them over the entire surface of the circle. Use different apprencd for each sample.
5. Rotate the slide with a lab rotator at 80-100 rpm for 2 minutes. positive results agglutination appear if the test is read later than two minutes. never two-minute finding in appearance.
Semi-quantitative method
1. Make serial two-fold dilutions of the sample in 9 g/L saline solution.
2. Proceed for dilution as in the qualitative method in ASO Titre.
Interpretation :
Examine magnify the presence or absence of visible agglutination immediately after removing the slide from the rotator.
The presence of agglutination indicates an ASO concentration equal to or. greater than 200 IU / mL. The titer, in the semi-quantitative method, is defined as the highest dilution showing a positive result.
Calculation: The approximate ASO concentration in the patient sample is calculated as follows: 200xASO Titer=IU/mL
Quality control :
Positive and Negative controls are recommended to monitor the performance of the procedure, as well as a comparative pattern for a better result interpretation.
Serum controls ASO are recommended for internal quality control, Each laboratory should establish its own Quality Control scheme and corrective actions.
Some non-streptococcal conditions that occasionally cause an increase in ASO titer, such as
· Rheumatic fever
· Pneumococcal Pneumonia
· Tuberculosis
· Gonorrhea, Hepatitis.
Reference values: Upto 200 IU/ml
Declamation:
Are you or your loved ones suffering from recurrent throat infections, or perhaps you're concerned about the potential long-term effects of streptococcal infections like rheumatic fever? It's time to shed light on an essential diagnostic – the Anti-Streptolysin O (ASO) test.
Imagine having the power to detect streptococcal infections early, potentially preventing severe complications. The ASO test is your beacon of hope. It measures the antibodies your body produces when exposed to streptococcus bacteria, helping healthcare professionals identify and manage these infections effectively.
In our comprehensive guide, we will explore the ins and outs of ASO testing. From the importance of early detection to the straightforward procedure, we've got you covered. Plus, we'll delve into the implications of your ASO test results for your overall health.
let's unveil the secrets of ASO testing and take control of your well-being.
