Synovial Fluid Analysis

Synovial Fluid Analysis is also called Synovia. It is the viscous fluid present in small quantities in the joints- Synovial fluid is produced by the inner membrane of the synovial joint (synovial membrane) and secreted into the joint cavity. Synovial fluid is a viscous, non-Newtonian fluid found in the cavities of synovial joints with its egg-white-like consistency. They reduce friction between the articular cartilage of synovial joints during movement.

Function Of Synovial Fluid:

The synovial fluid acts as a lubricant for the movement of the joints and reduces friction during joint movement. It works as an absorbing shock. Synovial fluid supplies oxygen and nutrients to the cartilage and joints. They remove metabolic wastes and carbon dioxide from Chondrocytes. It also contains phagocytic cells that remove microbes and debris that result from wear and tear in the joint.

Normal Composition of Synovial Fluid:

Synovial fluid is made up of the following substances,

• Hyaluronic Acid 3-4 mg/ml
• Nail
• Urea
• Urate
• Glucose
• Albumin

Diagnostic Importance:

It can be used to relieve pressure and pain in joints.

The test may be used to diagnose,

• Infection
• Osteoarthritis
• Rheumatoid Arthritis
• Joint Injury
• Grout
• Inflammatory conditions
• SLE

Deficiency of Synovial Fluid:

• Popping or cracking sound
• Tightness
• Pain in the knee
• Knee Osteoarthritis

Physical Analysis Of Synovial Fluid:

We check the following parameters in physical analysis:

Volume:

Normally it should be less than 3.5mL.

Color:

Normal fluid is clear to light yellow.

Viscosity:

Normally it should be highly viscous.

Chemical Analysis Of Synovial Fluid:

The following Tests are performed:

Microscopic Analysis of Synovial Fluid:

The microscopic analysis includes the following parameters:

• Red Blood cell count (RBC)
• White Blood cell count (WBC)
• Differential Count
• Crystals microscopy
• Bacteria identification

Microbiology Tests:

• Gram staining
• Synovial fluid culture

Serology Tests in Synovial Fluid:

• RAF Test (Rheumatoid Arthritis factor)
• ANA Test (Antinuclear Antibody)

Collection Of Synovial Fluid:

Synovial fluid can be collected by syringe in a procedure termed arthrocentesis, also known as joint aspiration. The fluid sample is sent to the laboratory for analysis.

Result:

If your results show your synovial fluid was not normal.

Treatment of synovial fluid Deficiency:

• Regular exercise
• A healthy diet
• Nutritional Supplements
• Joint injections