Antihyaluronidase Titer (AH Titer) – Streptococcal Infection Diagnostic Test
Antihyaluronidase Titer (AH Titer)
Synonyms: AH Titer, Antistreptococcal Hyaluronidase Titer, Antihyaluronidase Titer
Test Commonly Includes
- Antihyaluronidase Titer
- Antideoxyribonuclease-B (anti-DNase B)
- Antistreptolysin O (ASO) Titer
Patient Preparation
Fasting specimens are preferred for optimal results.
Specimen
Type: Serum
Container: Red top tube
Reference Range
- Normal: AH titers < 1:250
- Significant: A fourfold rise in titer between acute and convalescent samples
Use
Primarily used to document recent streptococcal infection. Particularly helpful when used alongside ASO and anti-DNase B titers.
Methodology
Tube enzyme neutralization test
Limitations
- Less reproducible than ASO and anti-DNase B tests
- Should be interpreted with clinical context and other streptococcal antibody results
Additional Information
- Used in conjunction with ASO to support the diagnosis of streptococcal infections.
- In post-streptococcal glomerulonephritis, particularly following streptococcal pyoderma, AHT is often more sensitive than ASO.
References
- Jacobs, Demott, Finley, Horvat, Kasten JR, & Tilzer, Laboratory Test Handbook, Lexi-Comp Inc, 1994.
