What's this test for?

This test is ideal if you're experiencing joint pain, fever, or fatigue after a recent sore throat or skin infection and want to know if strep bacteria are involved. It's also useful if you've had a suspected strep infection and are worried about complications like rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. The test looks for antibodies your body makes in response to a specific toxin produced by strep bacteria.

What happens after I get my results?

Your results will show up in your account with your ASO level clearly explained alongside the normal range, so you can see exactly where you stand. If your level is elevated, next steps usually include watching for joint pain, chest discomfort, or swelling, and retesting in a few weeks to see if the level is falling as expected. You can download a standard lab report anytime from your account, and if you test again in the future, the trends feature lets you compare results side by side to track how your antibody levels change over time.

Who should consider this test?

Anyone who recently had a sore throat, scarlet fever, or skin infection and is now dealing with unexplained joint pain, fever, swelling, or dark urine should consider this test. It's also a good option if someone in your household was diagnosed with strep and you want to check whether you were affected too. People being monitored for possible rheumatic fever or kidney issues after a strep infection often use this test to track their progress.

When will I get my results?

Results are typically ready within about 7 days of your blood draw. Once processed, they're uploaded directly to your online account where you can view and download them. You'll get a notification as soon as your report is available, so there's no need to call or wait on hold to find out.

What symptoms indicate I may need this test?

Common symptoms that suggest you might need this test include joint pain or swelling, fever, fatigue, chest discomfort, or a rash that shows up two to four weeks after a sore throat or skin infection. Dark or tea-colored urine and swelling around the eyes or ankles can also point to a strep-related kidney issue. If you had strep throat recently and now feel unusually unwell in a new way, this test can help explain why.

How can I naturally support recovery after a strep infection?

Getting plenty of rest, staying well hydrated, and eating a nutrient-rich diet with foods high in vitamin C and zinc can help your immune system clear the infection and reduce inflammation. Gentle movement like walking can support circulation without overtaxing your body while you recover. Avoiding close contact with others until you're feeling better also helps prevent reinfection, which can keep antibody levels elevated longer.

What does a high ASO result mean?

A high ASO level usually means your body recently fought off a strep infection, even if you didn't realize you had one. It doesn't tell you which specific complication you have, but very high or rising levels combined with symptoms like joint pain or swelling can point toward rheumatic fever or kidney inflammation. If your level is high and you're having concerning symptoms like chest pain or significant swelling, seek medical care promptly.

What causes a high ASO level?

The most common cause is a recent throat infection caused by group A streptococcus bacteria, since ASO antibodies form in response to a toxin these bacteria release. Levels typically rise about a week after infection and peak two to four weeks later. Reinfection or ongoing exposure to strep bacteria can keep your ASO level elevated for longer than expected.

How often should I retest?

If your first result was elevated, retesting in 2 to 4 weeks can show whether your antibody levels are rising, which may suggest an active or worsening infection, or falling, which suggests recovery. Since ASO levels naturally return to normal within 6 to 12 months after an infection clears, occasional retesting during that window can help confirm things are on track. If you're monitoring a known complication, more frequent retesting may be worthwhile.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

If your ASO level is elevated, keep an eye on symptoms like joint pain, fever, swelling, or changes in urine color, since these can signal a complication that needs prompt attention. Simple steps like resting, staying hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activity can support recovery while your body clears the antibodies. If you notice worsening symptoms or new symptoms like chest pain or significant swelling, seek medical care right away.

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.Long story short: In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want. If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test. Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout. If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want. When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system. Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way. You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy! If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

How do I know which test to get?

In the test options, find the test you want. If you’re not sure which test to get, we can lend a hand in finding the right option. Just text or call us at 754-799-7833, email us at support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you. We've got your back and reply quickly.

When will my lab results be available?

Most test results will be available within 1–3 business days. Once they're ready, we'll send an email and text message to let you know. After your blood draw, just hang tight and don't worry – we'll keep you updated and in the loop! If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com, and we'll gladly help you.

Is it possible to make changes to my lab order if I made a mistake with the name, date of birth, or any other details?

Absolutely! We totally understand that errors can happen. No worries, we're here to help you. Just reach out to us via text at 754-799-7833 or shoot us an email at support@privatemdlabs.com. Remember to include your order number and let us know the correct information you’d like to update. Our awesome team will jump right in and make sure everything is sorted out and accurate for you. There are no changes necessary if your address is wrong on the requisition though. We don’t mail anything out. Our lab requires an address to be listed to generate an order.

Do you accept health insurance?

Only HSA & FSA is accepted. Our services are strictly self-pay and cannot be submitted to your health insurance provider except for Health Savings Accounts or Flexible Savings Accounts. This policy applies to all insurance companies, including federal health insurance programs like Medicare. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com.

Can I cancel my order?

Yes. We get it – sometimes your needs change. As long as your samples haven’t been collected yet, we’re happy to help you cancel your order. If you have any further questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com. You can read more about our cancellation policy here.

How can I find a lab location near me?

During the ordering process, you’ll be able to select a specific lab near you, with no strings attached! You can switch it up later easily and visit any of our authorized locations as long as it’s the same lab company you selected your test for (Quest Diagnostics or Labcorp). Before you proceed with your order, feel free to browse through all our lab locations here. This will give you the peace of mind of knowing that there's a lab nearby your home, office or your favorite gym. If you have any questions, please text us at 754-799-7833 or email support@privatemdlabs.com and we'll gladly help you.

ASO Antibody Test - Strep Infection Detection

Getting your blood test with us is easy, private & backed by the power of science.

Long story short:

In the test options, use the filters or search box to narrow your choices and find the test you want.
If you need a hand navigating through options, text our super friendly support team at 754-799-7833, and we'll provide tailored suggestions to help you find the ideal test.
Once your order is placed, we’ll create your doctor’s lab order remotely, without any need for you to make a trip to a doctor in person or to talk to the doctor. Expect to receive your doctor’s lab order right in your inbox. It will also be in your patient portal if you need to find it later. We’ll also include instructions regarding fasting and other requirements for your test. Your patient portal will be auto-created hassle-free during checkout.
If this is your first time ordering, you'll be prompted to create a password for instant login access to your patient portal. It's a quick way to conveniently access your orders and results whenever you want.
When you’re ready, visit one of our 4,000 locations. Just bring your ID – no printing or faxing of your lab order is needed, as your order and details will already be in the lab system.
Note that most lab locations don’t accept walk-ins, so it’s best to book an appointment in advance. Don’t worry – we’ll provide detailed instructions along the way.
You’ll get your results via email & SMS and dive into understanding your body better. Yup, that easy!

754-799-7833

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