Anti Streptolysin O Titer

The Anti Streptolysin O Titer test looks for antibodies in your blood that your body makes while fighting off Group A Streptococcus (GAS) bacteria. This bacteria can cause various infections including strep throat, scarlet fever, skin infections, cellulitis etc. 

The Anti Streptolysin O Titer test helps identify a recent or past streptococcal infection. It is particularly useful in diagnosing complications that arise from streptococcal infections, such as rheumatic fever (a serious complication of untreated strep throat, affecting the heart, joints, brain and skin) and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis (an inflammation of kidneys, following a streptococcal infection, leading to kidney damage), which can occur weeks after the initial infection. 

This test is recommended for individuals showing symptoms of a recent streptococcal infection or related complications, including joint pain, skin rashes, fever, or kidney problems. The ASO levels can help tell whether a streptococcal infection might be responsible for these symptoms. 

Elevated ASO titres can suggest that the body has mounted an immune response to a recent strep infection. However, ASO levels can sometimes be temporarily elevated in individuals due to other factors like long-term illnesses, other infections etc., or even in healthy individuals without any symptoms. 

No special preparation is required for this test. However, inform your doctor about any medications, supplements or any underlying medical conditions you may have, as these factors could potentially affect the test results. 

Lab test results may vary across laboratories. Abnormal test results require an expert interpretation; therefore, never try to self-medicate at home based solely on these results, and always consult a doctor for a proper understanding of the test results as the insights from this test helps doctors assess the severity of the infection and determine appropriate treatment plans.