Normal synovial fluid is clear, straw-coloured, and being mucoid has a high viscosity, with a strong mucin clot after the addition of acetic acid. NAAT testing may be indicted for organisms such as Kingella species. Glucose, Protein, and Complement components C3 and C4, if appropriate. Microscopic examination: wet film including polarised light for the identification of crystals Gram stain and stains for Mycobacterium spp if appropriate. Synovial fluid cannot be fixed and should be transported to the laboratory immediately.Įven with refrigeration the specimen should reach the laboratory within 24 h. Optimally 5 mL synovial fluid in sterile container 5 mL in anticoagulant (lithium heparin or EDTA tube) if cell count required. Keywords: Joint Fluid, Crystals, Specimen:
