What are the effects of antistreptolysin-o?

Antistreptolysin O (ASO) is an antibody produced in response to streptolysin O, a toxin released by Group A Streptococcus bacteria. Elevated ASO levels indicate recent streptococcal infection, which can be associated with conditions like rheumatic fever or post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis. Testing for ASO helps in diagnosing these complications, but it does not have direct therapeutic effects. Instead, treatment focuses on addressing the underlying streptococcal infection.