Joint fluid is a transudate of plasma that is actively secreted by synovial cells. It provides nutrients and lubrication for articular cartilage. Examination of joint fluid focuses on those properties and constituents of value in determining the cause of effusions. A definitive diagnosis from joint fluid findings can be made only in two situations: crystal synovitis and septic arthritis. In other conditions, the correlation of joint fluid analysis with clinical information is useful in arriving at a diagnosis.
Copyright © 1990, Butterworth Publishers, a division of Reed Publishing.