Clinical pathology of synovial fluid

Examination of synovial fluid should be performed in a systematic manner so as to derive the maximum of information. Synovial fluids should be divided into (1) non-inflammatory, (2) inflammatory, (3) purulent and (4) hemorrhagic types. In addition to general description, analysis should include mucin clot test, fibrin clog formation, microscopic examination for cell count and differential cell count, microscopic examination for crystals of gout and pseudogout and microgiological examination. Chemical examination should include estimation of glucose and uric acid. Immunochemical examination may include determination of immunoglobulins, antinuclear factor and LE factor.