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Joint fluid culture is a laboratory test to detect infection-causing organisms in a sample of fluid surrounding a joint.
Alternative NamesJoint fluid culture
How the test is performedA sample of joint fluid is needed. This may be done in a doctor's office using a needle, or during an operating room procedure. For more information on this procedure, see joint fluid aspiration.
The fluid sample is sent to a laboratory where it is placed in a special dish and watched to see if bacteria, fungi, or viruses grow. This is called a culture.
If such microorganisms are detected, other tests may be done to further identify the infection-causing substance and determine the best treatment.
How to prepare for the testThere is no special preparation needed for the lab culture. For information on preparing for the removal of joint fluid, see joint fluid aspiration.
How the test will feelThe joint fluid culture is done in a laboratory and does not involve the patient.
For information on how the procedure to remove joint fluid feels, see joint fluid aspiration.
Why the test is performedYour doctor may order this test if you have unexplained pain and inflammation of a joint or a suspected joint infection.
Normal ValuesThe test result is considered normal if no organisms (bacteria, fungi, viruses) grow in the laboratory dish.
Note: Normal value ranges may vary slightly among different laboratories. Talk to your doctor about the meaning of your specific test results.
What abnormal results meanAbnormal results are a sign of infection in the joint. Infections may include:
What the risks areThere are no risks to the patient associated with a lab culture. For risks related to the removal of joint fluid, see joint fluid aspiration.
ReferencesEspinoza LR. Infections of bursae, joints, and bones. In: Goldman L, Ausiello D, eds. Cecil Medicine. 23rd ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Saunders Elsevier; 2007:chap 293.
Ohl CA. Infectious arthritis of native joints. In: Mandell GL, Bennett JE, Dolin R, eds. Principles and Practice of Infectious Diseases. 7th ed. Philadelphia, Pa: Churchill Livingstone Elsevier; 2009:chap 102.
What else can I help you with?
What is joint fluid analysis?
Joint fluid analysis, also called synovial fluid analysis, or arthrocentesis, is a procedure used to assess joint-related abnormalities, such as in the knee or elbow.passing a needle into a joint space and sucking out (aspirating) synovial fluid for diagnostic analysis. When the sample is sent to the laboratory, the fluid is analyzed for color, clarity, quantity, and chemical composition.
What diagnostic test is the removal of fluid from a joint?
The diagnostic test that involves removal of fluid from a joint is called arthrocentesis. This procedure is performed to analyze the fluid for signs of infection, inflammation, crystals, or other abnormalities that can help in diagnosing joint conditions like arthritis or gout.
Which diagnostic test involves removing fluid from a joint?
Arthrocentesis is a diagnostic test that involves removing fluid from a joint. It is typically done to analyze the fluid for signs of infection, inflammation, or other underlying conditions causing joint pain or swelling.
What does trace amount of fluids in each joint mean?
A trace amount of fluids in each joint typically refers to a small amount of synovial fluid present within the joint space. Synovial fluid helps lubricate the joint, reduce friction, and provide nutrients to the joint structures. Finding trace amounts of fluid in a joint is generally considered normal and may not indicate any significant issues.
Does synovial fluid become more thicker with as movement at the joint increase?
No, synovial fluid actually becomes less viscous with increased movement at the joint. This is because movement helps distribute the fluid more evenly, making it easier for nutrients to reach the joint structures.
What lubricates a joint cavity?
A fluid called synovial fluid lubricates the joint when it is moved.
Fluid that makes joint movement possible?
Joint fluid analysis, also called synovial fluid analysis
What bodily fluid is involved during arthrocentesis procedure in the office?
During an arthrocentesis procedure in the office, synovial fluid is the bodily fluid involved. This fluid is found in joint cavities, providing lubrication and nutrition to the joint structures. Analyzing the synovial fluid can help diagnose various joint conditions.
What is the medical term meaning aspiration of fluid from a joint?
Arthrocentesis is the medical term meaning aspiration of fluid from a joint.
What is joint fluid analysis?
Joint fluid analysis, also called synovial fluid analysis, or arthrocentesis, is a procedure used to assess joint-related abnormalities, such as in the knee or elbow.passing a needle into a joint space and sucking out (aspirating) synovial fluid for diagnostic analysis. When the sample is sent to the laboratory, the fluid is analyzed for color, clarity, quantity, and chemical composition.
What diagnostic test is the removal of fluid from a joint?
The diagnostic test that involves removal of fluid from a joint is called arthrocentesis. This procedure is performed to analyze the fluid for signs of infection, inflammation, crystals, or other abnormalities that can help in diagnosing joint conditions like arthritis or gout.
What is the medical term meaning removal of fluid from the knee joint?
The medical term for the removal of fluid from the knee joint is arthrocentesis or joint aspiration. It is a procedure performed to relieve pain and swelling caused by excess fluid accumulation in the knee joint.
What does it mean if you have fluid on your knee joint and ankle joint?
Having fluid on the knee joint or ankle joint could be a sign of inflammation, injury, or an underlying medical condition such as arthritis or tendinitis. It is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Which joints contain joint fluid?
Synovial joints contain synovial fluid. This fluid helps lubricate the joint, reduce friction, and provide nutrients to the joint structures. Examples of synovial joints include the knee, elbow, and shoulder joints.
Which diagnostic test involves removing fluid from a joint?
Arthrocentesis is a diagnostic test that involves removing fluid from a joint. It is typically done to analyze the fluid for signs of infection, inflammation, or other underlying conditions causing joint pain or swelling.
Synovial fluid is present in joint cavities of freely movable joints what is true about this fluid?
Synovial fluid helps lubricate the joint, reducing friction during movement, and provides nutrients to the cartilage. It also helps remove waste products from the joint and helps protect the joint from impact. Overall, synovial fluid plays a crucial role in maintaining healthy joint function.
Can installing a swivel joint in my fluid system improve flow efficiency?
No. A swivel joint is a way of controlling where fluid flows, not the efficiency at which it flows.
