Antistreptokinase antibodies: implications for thrombolysis in a region with endemic streptococcal infection. Issue 9 (26th August 2005)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Blackwell, N; Hollins, A; Gilmore, G; Norton, R
• Is Part Of: Journal of clinical pathology. Volume 58:Issue 9(2005)
• Page Start: 1005
• Page End: 1007
• Publication Date: 2005-08-26
• Subjects: ADB, anti-DNAse B antibodies -- ASOT, antistreptolysin O antibodies -- IHD, ischaemic heart disease -- OD, optical density -- SK, streptokinase; antistreptokinase antibodies -- thrombolysis; Pathology -- Periodicals; Pathology, Molecular -- Periodicals; 616.0705
• DOI: 10.1136/jcp.2004.025312
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0021-9746

Abstract

Abstract : Aims: To determine antistreptokinase antibody (anti-SK) titres in patients with the acute coronary syndrome from communities with endemic group A streptococcal infection because of the implications for streptokinase (SK) thrombolysis. Methods: Anti-SK titres were determined using a standard method in 47 consecutive SK naive patients, presenting to the Mt Isa Hospital emergency department, Australia, with an acute coronary syndrome. Both indigenous and non-indigenous subjects were enrolled. Antistreptolysin O (ASOT) and anti-DNAse B (ADB) titres were also determined. Results: Indigenous patients were more likely to have anti-SK antibodies (p < 0.001) than the non-indigenous cohort. Anti-SK antibody titres also correlated well with ASOT/ADB titres. Conclusions: Anti-SK antibodies are highly prevalent in SK naive indigenous patients presenting with the acute coronary syndrome. Streptokinase should not be used for thrombolysis in populations with endemic group A streptococcal infection.