Synovial Fluid Analysis

A synovial fluid analysis is a group of tests that looks for changes in your synovial fluid. These tests check for the cause of pain and swelling in your joints. Joints are places in the body where two bones meet, such as your knees, shoulders, hips, hands, and feet.

Synovial fluid, also known as joint fluid, is a thick liquid located between your joints. The fluid cushions and protects the ends of bones and reduces friction during movement. Normally, there is only a small amount of synovial fluid between the joints.

If you have a joint problem, extra fluid can build up, causing pain, stiffness, and inflammation. Sometimes, removing the excess fluid is enough to reduce the pain you may have in the affected joint. A synovial fluid analysis is a group of tests that checks for A synovial fluid analysis can help find out if you may have a disorder that affects the joints.

The analysis usually includes: A check of the appearance of the synovial fluid, such as its color and thickness; Chemical tests to check for changes in the synovial fluid's chemicals, such as glucose, protein acid, and uric acid; Microscopic analysis to look for crystals, bacteria, and other substances;

Why this test is done

You may need this test if you have symptoms of a joint disorder. These include:

• Joint pain with a fever
• Joint swelling
• Redness over the joint
• A joint that feels warm to the touch
• Difficulty bending a joint

This test may also be used to monitor a known joint condition.

How to prepare

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for several hours before the test. Your provider will let you know if you need to fast and if there are any special instructions to follow.

Tell your provider if you are taking any blood thinner medicines.

Other names for this test

joint fluid analysis