Rapid Latex Kits
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ASO, RA, CRP
Rheumatoid serodiagnosis is possible through correlation of results obtained from patient serum to the RA, CRP and ASO tests.
Detection of ASO in serum may aid in the diagnosis of streptococcal infections. Infections promoted by acute streptococcal infection result in the production of anti-streptolysin O antibodies due to the presence of the streptolysin O antigen liberated by the bacteria. Information on the extent and degree of infection can be obtained from the measurement of serum ASO levels. Increased ASO levels are also associated with rheumatic fever and glomerulonephritis.
Rheumatoid factors (RF) are a group of IgM antibodies directed against antigenic sites on the body’s own IgG antibodies. Between 60 and 80% of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) possess this abnormal protein in their blood and joint fluid. Detection of RF is therefore of value in the diagnosis and monitoring of the disease.
CRP is a serum constituent originally defined by its ability to precipitate Pneumococcus C polysaccharide. Characteristically, CRP appears in the serum of individuals in response to various inflammatory conditions and tissue necrosis and disappears as the causative conditions subside. CRP is routinely found in cases of bacterial infection, active rheumatic fever and many malignant diseases and is often seen in association with cases of rheumatoid arthritis, viral infections and tuberculosis. CRP has also been detected in patients following blood transfusions and surgical operations as well as in patients with burns, pemphigus vulgaris and other bullaous lesions.
Pregnancy Screening
Screening for pregnancy by latex agglutination methodology has remained extremely popular over the years, despite the introduction of an increasing number of test choices. hCG present in a urine sample from a pregnant woman reacts with monoclonal anti-hCG antibodies bound to latex beads. Cross-bridging of adjacent beads occurs producing a strong visible agglutination.
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