The synovial fluid is analyzed for several factors:
Color and Clarity: Normal synovial fluid is clear and pale yellow. Cloudiness or a different color can indicate infection or inflammation. Viscosity: Healthy synovial fluid is viscous. A decrease in viscosity can signal inflammation or infection. White Blood Cell Count: Elevated levels of white blood cells can indicate infection or inflammatory conditions. Crystals: The presence of uric acid crystals suggests gout, while calcium pyrophosphate crystals indicate pseudogout. Microbial Cultures: This helps identify any bacterial, viral, or fungal infections.
