Synovial Fluid Analysis and Functions

Synovial fluid is a thick, lubricating fluid found in the joints of the human body. It helps reduce friction and allows for smooth movement.

Joint fluid analysis, also known as synovial fluid analysis, is a test performed to diagnose the cause of joint inflammation.

Articular cartilage is the smooth tissue covering the ends of bones within a joint. It is avascular, meaning it lacks blood vessels.

An accumulation of synovial fluid in a joint can be a sign of joint inflammation or damage to the joint tissues.

Synovial fluid is called synovial because the word "synovium" comes from the Latin word for "egg".

Damage or inflammation of the synovial membrane, which surrounds the joint, can cause pain and stiffness, collectively known as arthritis.

The main function of synovial fluid is to lubricate the joints, reducing friction and allowing smooth movement.

The process of filtering out large molecules, primarily proteins, from synovial fluid.

The fluid that lubricates and cushions joints, found in the joint cavity.

A procedure to extract fluid from a joint, often used to analyze synovial fluid for conditions like infection or inflammation.

The ability of synovial fluid to absorb shock and reduce stress on joints during movement.

The normal characteristic of synovial fluid - it does not form clots.

When synovial fluid clots, indicating a potential problem in the joint, such as infection or inflammation.

The reason why doctors may request synovial fluid analysis - to diagnose and treat joint problems.

The process of analyzing synovial fluid to identify the cause of joint pain, swelling, or other problems.

The fluid that lubricates and cushions joints. It is filtered to remove large proteins.

When synovial fluid is aspirated, it can help identify the cause of joint inflammation based on its volume.

Normal synovial fluid is clear and transparent.

Synovial fluid can become cloudy due to the presence of white blood cells, crystals, fibrin, or rice bodies.

Synovial fluid can appear opaque and milky due to crystals.

Synovial fluid with a ground pepper appearance indicates ochronosis.

Synovial fluid with an oily and shimmering appearance indicates rheumatoid arthritis.

Normally, the joint contains a small amount of synovial fluid.

A significant increase in synovial fluid volume usually indicates inflammation.

Arthrocentesis involves inserting a needle into the joint, usually without anesthesia.

This blood cell is frequently found in synovial fluid and is associated with early rheumatoid arthritis as well as other inflammatory conditions. Its presence often indicates inflammation and can inhibit clot formation.

Synovial fluid is a viscous fluid found in the joints. In cases of severe viscosity, this enzyme can be added to the sample to break down hyaluronic acid and make analysis easier.

The cell count reveals the number of white blood cells (WBCs) in the synovial fluid. It helps assess the degree of inflammation and infection.

This test determines the different types of white blood cells found in synovial fluid, giving a deeper understanding of the nature of the inflammation.

A high monocyte count in synovial fluid is a characteristic of viral arthritis, serum sickness, and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). It suggests an immune-mediated inflammation.

A condition that can cause pain and inflammation in the joints, similar to gout but caused by calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals.

A type of arthritis that is caused by the buildup of calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals in the joints.

A visual description of a joint fluid sample containing calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate crystals, resembling ground pepper.

A dark, brown pigment that can accumulate in tissues, especially cartilage, leading to degeneration and ochronosis due to the breakdown of homogentisic acid.

A condition characterized by the accumulation of ochronotic pigment in cartilage, leading to joint pain, stiffness, and degeneration.

A technique used to study joint fluid by examining its cells under a microscope, aiding in the diagnosis of conditions like inflammation, infection, or crystal deposition.

A type of blood tube used for blood glucose analysis, containing sodium fluoride to stabilize glucose levels and prevent breakdown.

Powdered anticoagulants should be avoided when collecting joint fluid for crystal analysis because they can interfere with crystal identification.

Lithium heparin should not be used as an anticoagulants for joint fluid analysis. Sodium heparin is the preferred anticoagulant.

The viscosity of joint fluid can be a clue to the presence of certain conditions. Normal synovial fluid has a high viscosity, similar to egg white.