What is this test?
This is a blood test that checks for the effects of a recent streptococcus bacteria infection that may cause Rheumatic fever or kidney disease.
 
Sample required
Blood.
 
Patient preparation
No specific patient preparation protocol is required. Inform your doctor if you are on any medications or have any underlying medical conditions or allergies before undergoing this test.
 
Turn-around time (How long does it take?)
5 Hours.
 
Basis of the Test
Antistreptolysin O (ASO) is an antibody targeted against streptolysin O, a toxic enzyme produced by group A Streptococcus bacteria. Group A Streptococcus (Streptococcus pyogenes) is the bacterium responsible for causing strep throat and a variety of other infections, including skin infections (pyoderma, impetigo, cellulitis). In most cases, strep infections are identified and treated with antibiotics, and the infections resolve. When a strep infection does not cause identifiable symptoms and goes untreated, or is treated ineffectively, complications namely rheumatic fever and a type of kidney disease (glomerulonephritis), can sometimes develop, especially in young children.