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Synovial fluid analysis

Joint fluid analysis; Joint fluid aspiration

 

Synovial fluid analysis is a group of tests that examine joint (synovial) fluid. The tests help diagnose and treat joint-related problems.

How the Test is Performed

 

A sample of synovial fluid is needed for this test. Synovial fluid is normally a thick, straw-colored liquid found in small amounts in joints, bursae (fluid-filled sacs in the joints), and tendon sheaths.

After the joint area is cleaned, the health care provider inserts a sterile needle through the skin and into the joint space. Fluid is then drawn through the needle into a sterile syringe.

The fluid sample is sent to the laboratory. The laboratory technician:

  • Checks the sample's color and how clear it is
  • Places the sample under a microscope, counts the number of red and white blood cells, and looks for crystals (in the case of gout) or bacteria
  • Measures glucose, proteins, uric acid, and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH)
  • Cultures the fluid to see if any bacteria grow

 

How to Prepare for the Test

 

Normally, no special preparation is needed. Tell your provider if you are taking a blood thinner, such as aspirin, warfarin (Coumadin) or clopidogrel (Plavix). These medicines can affect test results or your ability to take the test.

 

How the Test will Feel

 

Sometimes, the provider will first inject numbing medicine into the skin with a small needle, which will sting. A larger needle is then used to draw out the synovial fluid.

This test may also cause some discomfort if the tip of the needle touches bone. The procedure usually lasts less than 1 to 2 minutes.

 

Why the Test is Performed

 

The test can help diagnose the cause of pain, redness, or swelling in joints.

Sometimes, removing the fluid can also help relieve joint pain.

This test may be used when your doctor suspects:

  • Bleeding in the joint after a joint injury
  • Gout and other types of arthritis
  • Infection in a joint

 

What Abnormal Results Mean

 

Abnormal joint fluid may look cloudy or abnormally thick.

The following found in joint fluid can be a sign of a health problem:

  • Blood -- injury in the joint or a body-wide bleeding problem
  • Pus -- infection in the joint
  • Too much joint fluid -- osteoarthritis or cartilage injury

 

Risks

 

Risks of this test include:

  • Infection of the joint -- unusual, but more common with repeated aspirations
  • Bleeding into the joint space

 

Considerations

 

Ice or cold packs may be applied to the joint for 24 to 36 hours after the test to reduce the swelling and joint pain. Depending on the exact problem, you can probably resume your normal activities after the procedure. Talk to your provider to determine what activity is most appropriate for you.

 

 

References

El-Gabalawy HS. Synovial fluid analysis, synovial biopsy, and synovial pathology. In: Firestein GS, Budd RC, Gabriel SE, McInnes IB, O'Dell JR, eds. Kelly's Textbook of Rheumotology . 9th ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2013:chap 53.

Karcher DS, McPherson. Cerebrospinal, synovial, serous body fluids, and alternative specimens. In: McPherson RA, Pincus MR, eds. Henry's Clinical Diagnosis and Management by Laboratory Methods . 22nd ed. Philadelphia, PA: Elsevier Saunders; 2011:chap 29.

 
  • Joint aspiration - illustration

    Synovial fluid analysis is a series of tests performed on synovial (joint) fluid to help diagnose and treat joint-related abnormalities. To obtain a synovial fluid sample, a needle is inserted into the knee between the joint space. When the needle is in place the synovial fluid is then withdrawn. The sample is sent to the lab for analysis.

    Joint aspiration

    illustration

    • Joint aspiration - illustration

      Synovial fluid analysis is a series of tests performed on synovial (joint) fluid to help diagnose and treat joint-related abnormalities. To obtain a synovial fluid sample, a needle is inserted into the knee between the joint space. When the needle is in place the synovial fluid is then withdrawn. The sample is sent to the lab for analysis.

      Joint aspiration

      illustration

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          Tests for Synovial fluid analysis

           

           

          Review Date: 5/9/2015

          Reviewed By: C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, San Francisco, CA. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Isla Ogilvie, PhD, and the A.D.A.M. Editorial team.

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