Test Name: ASO, Blood
Specimen Type: Serum
Specimen Required: 3-5 Cc Yellow Top Gel Vial
Day Performed: Daily
Reporting Time: 8 Hours STAT Reporting Time: 120 MINUTES Methodology: Beckman Coulter AU480
CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE:
- A negative test result means that there is no strep infection. At times, a test that was negative the first time may be positive (meaning it finds ASO antibodies) when done again. Therefore, in the presence of symptoms, it is advised to repeat the test again in 2 to 4 weeks.
- A positive test result means there is a strep infection, even in absence of the symptoms.
This test may also be performed if there are symptoms of a previous infection by group A streptococcus that contributes to following illnesses:
- Bacterial endocarditis, an infection of the inner lining of your heart
- A kidney problem called glomerulonephritis
- Rheumatic fever, which can affect the heart, joints, or bones
- Scarlet fever
- Strep throat
References:
- Allen CT, Nussenbaum B, Merati AL. Acute and chronic laryngopharyngitis. In: Flint PW, Francis HW, Haughey BH, et al, eds. Cummings Otolaryngology: Head & Neck Surgery. 7th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2021: chap 61.
- Bryant AE, Stevens DL. Streptococcus pyogenes. In: Bennett JE, Dolin R, Blaser MJ, eds. Mandell, Douglas, and Bennett’s Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases.9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier; 2020: chap 197.