Specialised tests

Joint fluid (synovial fluid) analysis in Bhubaneswar

Joint fluid analysis examines fluid drawn from a swollen joint. It is the most reliable way to confirm gout or pseudogout (by finding crystals) and to look for signs of infection.
Report shared onlineISO-certified lab

Urgent: A suddenly hot, swollen, very painful joint with fever can be septic arthritis, a medical emergency. Call +91 93386 53086 during clinic hours or go to the nearest emergency department.

What the test measures

The cell count and type of cells in the fluid, and crystals viewed under polarised light: needle-shaped urate crystals in gout, and calcium pyrophosphate crystals in pseudogout (CPPD).

When your doctor may order it

  • A hot, swollen joint where the cause is unclear
  • Suspected gout or pseudogout
  • Any concern about joint infection

Understanding the result

Urate crystals confirm gout; calcium pyrophosphate crystals confirm CPPD. A very high white cell count raises concern for infection, which is an emergency. The doctor who drew the fluid will explain the result.

This page gives general information. Your result must be interpreted by your doctor together with your symptoms and examination.

Seeing a rheumatologist?

A swollen knee can be gout, infection or arthritis. OARC’s guide explains the next steps.

Knee pain and swelling

Related tests

Frequently asked questions

Can I give a joint fluid sample at home?

No. Joint fluid is drawn by a doctor at OARC under sterile conditions.

Book a test or home sample collection

Share your doctor’s prescription on WhatsApp and our team will confirm a collection slot at OARC Saheed Nagar, OARC Sailashree Vihar or your home.