Specimen Requirements

Title

Cell Count, Synovial Fluid with Crystals

Specimen Requirement

Collect 1 mL synovial fluid in a lavender EDTA, send refrigerated same day due to short stability.

Methodology

Microscopic and macroscopic examination

Stability

Room temp: Unacceptable, Refrigerated: 48 hours, Frozen: Unacceptable

Reference Range

The reference range is determined by the performing laboratory and will show on the report.

Turnaround

1-2 days

Clinical Use

Evaluate synovial fluid for the presence of RBCs, WBCs, crystals, and for physical appearance.

For serous fluid, see test code BFCT.

Test Code

SFCT