Methods of assessing the synovial fluid cell count

We have compared a rapid side-room testing strip and an automated cell counter with the conventional haemocytometer counting chamber as methods for assessing the synovial fluid cell count. The testing strip was shown to be very sensitive in detecting esterases derived from granulocytes, but to the experienced clinician it offered little clinical advantage over naked-eye judgement. The automated counter provides a fast and reliable alternative to the haemocytometer and in situations where an accurate cell count is required it could replace the haemocytometer.