What is ASO in blood test results?
Definition. Antistreptolysin O (ASO) titer is a blood test to measure antibodies against streptolysin O, a substance produced by group A streptococcus bacteria. Antibodies are proteins our bodies produce when they detect harmful substances, such as bacteria.
What happens if ASO titre is positive?
An elevated titer of antibody (positive ASO) or an ASO titer that is rising means that it is likely that the person tested has had a recent strep infection. ASO titers that are initially high and then decline suggest that an infection has occurred and may be resolving.
What is considered high ASO level?
Generally, an ASO test value below 200 is considered normal. In children under the age of 5, the test value should be less than 100. Results will vary by laboratory. If your results show that you have an elevated ASO value, you may have a post-streptococcal complication.
What is a high ASO level?
If you have elevated levels of ASO antibodies, it means that you have probably had a recent strep infection. If your levels are taken again later and are higher, it also means you’ve probably had a recent strep infection.
Is ASO high in rheumatoid arthritis?
The ASO level can be regarded as a measure of the extent and degree of infection. The levels (titres) of ASO reach the highest at the beginning of rheumatic fever but they may also be seen in some other diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Takayasu arthritis.
Is ASO related to arthritis?
ASO is indicative of rheumatic arthritis.
What is the treatment for ASO positive?
The main function of streptolysin O is to cause hemolysis (the breaking open of red blood cells)—in particular, beta-hemolysis. Increased levels of ASO titre in the blood could cause damage to the heart and joints. In most cases, penicillin is used to treat patients with increased levels of ASO titre.
What is the normal range of ASO?
Is ASO treatable?
Unlike the AAV treatment, ASO treatment is not a permanent cure and requires ongoing distribution of the serum to the patient to maintain the reduction of the toxicity. Read more about ASOs in Nature: here.