What is it used for?
A synovial fluid analysis is used to help diagnose the cause of joint pain and inflammation. Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection. It can cause pain, swelling, redness, and loss of function in the affected area. Causes of joint problems include:
Osteoarthritis, the most common form of arthritis. It is a chronic, progressive disease that causes joint cartilage to break down. It can be painful and lead to loss of mobility and function.
Gout, a type of arthritis that causes inflammation in one or more joints, usually in the big toe
Rheumatoid arthritis, a condition in which the body's immune system attacks healthy cells in your joints
Joint effusion, a condition that happens when too much fluid builds up around a joint. It often affects the knee. When it affects the knee, it may be referred to as knee effusion or fluid on the knee.
Infection in a joint
Bleeding disorder, such as hemophilia. Hemophilia is an inherited disorder that can cause excessive bleeding. Sometimes the excess blood ends up in the synovial fluid.
