ASO medical

ASO Medical

The term ASO Medical can refer to several concepts within the medical field, including Anti-Streptolysin O (ASO) titer, which is a blood test used to measure antibodies against streptolysin O, a substance produced by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. This test is often used to help diagnose conditions related to streptococcal infections, such as rheumatic fever and post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis.

Overview

Anti-Streptolysin O (ASO) is an antibody produced by the immune system in response to an infection with Group A Streptococcus bacteria. These bacteria are responsible for a variety of infections, including strep throat, scarlet fever, and skin infections. The ASO titer test measures the level of these antibodies in the blood, which can help determine if a recent streptococcal infection has occurred.

Clinical Significance

The ASO titer is particularly useful in diagnosing conditions that may develop as a complication of streptococcal infections. These include:

• Rheumatic fever: An inflammatory disease that can develop after a streptococcal infection, affecting the heart, joints, skin, and brain.
• Post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis: A kidney disease that can occur after infection with certain strains of streptococcus bacteria.

A high ASO titer indicates a recent streptococcal infection, which can be crucial in diagnosing these conditions.

Test Procedure

The ASO titer test is a simple blood test. A healthcare provider will draw a blood sample from a vein, usually in the arm. The sample is then sent to a laboratory where it is analyzed for the presence and concentration of ASO antibodies.

Interpretation of Results

The results of the ASO titer test are typically reported in Todd units. A normal result is usually less than 200 units in adults and less than 150 units in children. However, these values can vary depending on the laboratory and the population being tested.

Elevated ASO titers suggest a recent streptococcal infection, but they do not indicate the presence of an active infection. Instead, they reflect the body's immune response to a past infection.

Limitations

While the ASO titer test is useful, it has limitations:

• It cannot determine the exact timing of the infection.
• It may not be elevated in all individuals with a recent streptococcal infection.
• It is not useful for diagnosing current infections, as it reflects past exposure.

Also see

• Streptococcal pharyngitis
• Scarlet fever
• Autoimmune diseases
• Antibody