Description
Overview: While the “ASO Titre” measures the exact amount of antibodies, the ASO Qualitative test is a screening method (often a slide agglutination test) designed to answer a “Yes or No” question: Are the antibody levels significantly elevated? It typically detects if the antibody level is above a standard cutoff (usually 200 IU/mL).
Clinical Significance:
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Screening Tool: This test is the first step in investigating post-streptococcal complications.
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Positive Result: Indicates that ASO antibodies are present at elevated levels (usually >200 IU/mL), suggesting a recent strep infection. A positive result is often followed by a Quantitative ASO Titre test to measure the exact severity.
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Negative Result: Indicates antibody levels are normal or below the detection limit, suggesting no recent infection (or that it is too early to detect).
When is this test recommended?
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As a quick screen for patients with symptoms of rheumatic fever (joint pain, fever) or kidney inflammation (glomerulonephritis).
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To rule out past strep infection as a cause of current symptoms.
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It is often used in smaller clinics or for initial assessments before ordering more expensive quantitative testing.
Sample Requirements:
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Specimen: Serum.
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Container: Gold Top (SST) or Red Top Tube.
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Preparation: No fasting is typically required.
