Streptolysin O

Streptolysin O is a toxin produced by the bacteria Streptococcus pyogenes, which can cause infections like strep throat. It’s a type of protein that damages and kills red and white blood cells, helping the bacteria spread and evade the immune system. The body responds by producing antibodies against this toxin, which can be measured to help diagnose a recent or past streptococcal infection. Streptolysin O is heat-sensitive and used in laboratory tests to detect and monitor streptococcal infections, assisting healthcare providers in diagnosis and treatment planning.