Anti-staphylyscin is an antibody directed against Staphylolysin, also known as α-hemolysin or α-toxin, a protein produced by 80-90% of Staphylococcus aureus strains (anti-staphylococcal antibodies). This protein toxin has the ability to kill the skin (dermal) and cause vasoconstriction. It represents one of the major contributors to the pathogenicity of staphylococcal infections with cytotoxic and cytolytic capacity, responsible for the observed cell necrosis. Staphylysin, with high antigenicity, causes the synthesis of antibodies against it and which are involved in the repair of the body, neutralizing the action of the toxin.
Screening and quantification of Staphylolysin antibodies cannot replace the diagnosis of Staphylococcal infections with conventional microbiological cultures. However, its identification is important in the monitoring and treatment of some sub-clinical and chronic infections.
The levels of these anti-Staphylococcal antibodies remain high in cases of chronic staphylococcal disease, especially in cases of chronic osteomyelitis and osteoarthritis and in chronic pulmonary and cutaneous staphylococcal infections. In these cases, the antibody titer is of predictive value for treatment: persistence of high and stable titers indicates persistence of infection, whereas return to normal is evidence of effective therapeutic intervention.
Important Note
Laboratory test results are the most important parameter for the diagnosis and monitoring of all pathological conditions. 70%-80% of diagnostic decisions are based on laboratory tests. Correct interpretation of laboratory results allows a doctor to distinguish "healthy" from "diseased".
Laboratory test results should not be interpreted from the numerical result of a single analysis. Test results should be interpreted in relation to each individual case and family history, clinical findings and the results of other laboratory tests and information. Your personal physician should explain the importance of your test results.
At Diagnostiki Athinon we answer any questions you may have about the test you perform in our laboratory and we contact your doctor to get the best possible medical care.
