Laboratory Test Reference Guide

Laboratory Information

Test Name

Crystals (Synovial Fluid)

Synonyms

Uric acid crystals
Gout
Calcium pyrophosphate crystals
Pseudo Gout

Specimen Collection

Adult Specimen

Synovial fluid obtained by needle aspiration.

Specimen Collection and Transport Protocols

Collection into a heparinised tube will prevent clot formation in patients with inflammatory conditions.

Test Information

Department

Microbiology

Test Availability

Mon - Sun, 0800 - 2400

Laboratory Turnaround Time

1 hr

Method

Polarised light microscopy

Additional Information

Crystal analysis is routinely performed on all synovial fluids.
Processing available urgently as call out via Clinician request 2400-0800 hrs