[Streptococcal seroepidemiology: comparison of 3 methods]

Streptococcal antibodies survey in adult population. In a series of 1609 hospitalized adult patients, without symptoms of acute or chronic streptococcal rheumatism, the level of antistreptococcal antibodies was measured, using three technical methods: the traditional one, i.e., antistreptolysim titer (ASLO); streptozyme titer (STZ) and the anti-C-polysaccharide technique (Microstreptokit, MSK); by the mutual comparison of these three antigens it was possible to ascertain some differences of the antibody response. In a mass survey it appears useful the use of two methods, i.e., ALSO and MSK; in investigations aiming at recognizing the cases with cardiac or rheumatic silent lesions the couple MSK-STZ appears to be more reliable. To ensure a more sure covering of the whole field of streptococcal silent infections, the three methods should be used together.