Turnaround times
The quoted turnaround time is from sample receipt in the laboratory, to results authorisation in the Laboratory Information Management system. The times do not include transport of specimen to the laboratory or the administrative process to print and post/email reports. Service users must allow for transport and reporting time when ordering tests.
Clinical background:
Used to determine whether there has been a recent Group A Streptococcus infection, especially in patients presenting with symptoms suggestive of rheumatic fever or glomerulonephritis. However, a negative ASO titre does not exclude recent streptococcal infection: ASO titres may not be elevated after about 20% of streptococcal infections or if taken too early in the course of the illness. In addition, ASO titres may remain elevated for several months following infection. Taking acute and convalescent samples 2-4 weeks apart may therefore assist interpretation.
Specimen container paediatric:
Clotted blood.
Specimen container adult:
Clotted blood – Gold SST.
Minimum volume paediatric:
1 ml
Minimum volume adult:
2 ml
Special requirements:
Send to laboratory as quickly as possible. If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.
Sample stability:
Stable for up to 24 hrs.
Transport requirements:
Standard
Add on test:
Possible up to 5 days.
Quality assurance:
UK National External Quality Assurance Scheme (UKNEQAS).
Interpretation:
Interpretative comments are added to reports where applicable.
Reference Ranges:
Adults: Upper limit of normal 250-300 units/ml
Children <16 years: Upper limit of normal 200 units/ml
Factors affecting result:
If delays likely, refrigerate at 2-8 deg C.