Antistreptolysin titre - AST
General information:
- up to 1 year of age - under 30
- from 1 to 6 years of age - under 130
- from 6 to 18 years of age - under 250
- over 18 years of age - under 200
Antistreptolysin titer - additional information:
Quantitative measurement of antibodies against streptolysin O produced by group A streptococcus S.pyogenes.
Titer testing is appropriate in cases of recent infection or symptoms associated with the following diseases:
- strep throat
- scarlet fever skin
- diseases such as pyoderma, impetigo
- gingival and dental infections
If these diseases were not cured in patients (especially often children), changes occur in the body that lead to:
- rheumatism
- glomerulonephritis
- arthritic complaints in young patients
The formation of antibodies begins about a week to a month after a streptococcal infection. The expected peak values are approximately 3-5 weeks after the onset of symptoms and remain high for a long time in most patients. *It is important to note that high antistreptolysin titer values do not always mean that patients will develop complications. It is recommended to monitor the dynamics of the antibodies and the available symptoms. The attending physician (ENT, general practitioner, pediatrician, nephrologist) assesses the course and duration of treatment. Antibiotics and corticosteroids affect antistreptolysin titer values. In Laborexpress 2000, we offer an apparatus-based, highly sensitive method for quantitative determination of the streptolysin O titer, in which the probability of errors is greatly reduced. The reference values vary in different age groups, regions, the data from the patient's history are also important. After scarlet fever, it is recommended that children be tested for urine and antistreptolysin titer between 20-40 days of the disease! The titer of antibodies is not a quick method for proving a streptococcal infection. If such is suspected, Laborexpress offers a cultural study with an antibiogram (we also work with referrals). For scarlet fever-contact children and adults (including pregnant women), we offer a rapid test for the streptococcal antigen, which gives a result within 30 minutes. The test saves parents worry and prevents unnecessary antibiotic treatment. During the winter period, viral respiratory diseases also increase, they require a symptomatic examination, but sometimes resemble a streptococcal infection. That is why we at Laborexpress offer you a rapid combined test for respiratory pathogens Combo Adeno-RSV-Influenza A-Influenza B.