Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint

Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint

Article
Bone, Muscle, & Joint
Laboratory Procedures
+3
Contributed byKrish Tangella MD, MBAMay 10, 2019

What are the other Names for this Test? (Equivalent Terms)

  • Elbow Joint Fluid Analysis Test

What is Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint Test? (Background Information)

  • Synovial fluid is a thick substance found in the major joints of the body (such as the shoulder, hip, elbow, wrist, knee, and ankle), most notably in the knee. It acts as a lubricant, shock absorber, and nutrient medium
  • A joint links the ends of bones together and enables them to articulate or move against one another. However, the bones do not physically touch each other, as this would cause bone degradation and pain. Instead, the articular surfaces of bones are covered by articular cartilage. This is a smooth form of cartilage that is less dense and thus slicker than other cartilages
  • The synovial fluid fills the spaces between articular surfaces within the joints. Articular cartilage is also permeable to synovial fluid. This enables the two to work together to provide further joint protection
  • When articular cartilage is compressed, it pushes synovial fluid out and into the joint, where the fluid can lubricate the opposing surfaces. When compression is relieved, the fluid re-enters the articular cartilage. Similarly, synovial fluid acts as a shock absorber. Forces felt by the joints are spread across the synovial fluid, lessening stress on the articular surfaces
  • Another important function of synovial fluid is to exchange wastes and nutrients with the surrounding capillaries. This allows for proper maintenance of the joint tissue
  • The joint disorders are categorized into 5 groups
    • Non-inflammatory
    • Inflammatory
    • Crystal-induced
    • Septic
    • Hemorrhagic      

The Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint evaluates several aspects of the synovial fluid to assess joint health and differentiate between different types of joint disorders. The aspects evaluated include:

  • Appearance: Color, turbidity, and other visual properties
  • Chemistry: Glucose, pH, proteins, lactic acid, and uric acid
  • Microscopic examination: White blood cells, red blood cells, and polarized light analysis to detect crystals
  • Infectious disease analysis: Gram stain, culture, and smear to detect pathogens

What are the Clinical Indications for performing the Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint Test?

Following are the clinical indications for performing a Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint:

  • Following-up to a physical examination
  • Monitoring a joint disorder
  • Recent injury
  • Swelling
  • Redness
  • Pain

How is the Specimen Collected for Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint Test?

Following is the specimen collection process for Synovial Fluid Analysis of the Elbow Joint:

Sample required: Synovial fluid of the elbow joint

Process: Insertion of a needle into the elbow joint (arthrocentesis of elbow joint).

Preparation required: No special preparation is needed prior to the test. 

What is the Significance of the Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint Test Result?

The significance of Synovial Fluid Analysis of Elbow Joint is explained:

  • Increased white blood cells, microorganisms, lactic acid, uric acid, and/or crystals in the synovial fluid may indicate:
    • Gout
    • Pseudogout
    • Osteoarthritis
    • Acute bacterial arthritis
    • Rheumatoid arthritis            
    • Hemophilic arthritis
    • Tuberculous arthritis
    • Systemic lupus erythematosus
    •  A significant trauma 

The laboratory test results are NOT to be interpreted as results of a "stand-alone" test. The test results have to be interpreted after correlating with suitable clinical findings and additional supplemental tests/information. Your healthcare providers will explain the meaning of your tests results based on the overall clinical scenario. 

Additional and Relevant Useful Information:

  • The synovial fluid analysis of a joint involves the testing for uric acid and glucose levels. In order to assess the overall levels of uric acid and glucose in the body, additional blood and urine tests for these chemicals may be performed
  • Your healthcare provider will combine the findings of the blood test, urine test, synovial fluid analysis, and the overall clinical signs and symptoms to arrive at a diagnosis

Certain medications that you may be currently taking may influence the outcome of the test. Hence, it is important to inform your healthcare provider of the complete list of medications (including any herbal supplements) you are currently taking. This will help the healthcare provider interpret your test results more accurately and avoid unnecessary chances of a misdiagnosis.

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Krish Tangella MD, MBA

Pathology, Medical Editorial Board, DoveMed Team

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