Lab Tests.
Last updated Tuesday, January 04, 2005
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Joint fluid testsJoint aspiration Inserting a needle into a joint and aspirating, or removing,
synovial fluid from it can provide the doctor with valuable information
(synovial fluid is the slippery fluid that fills a joint, providing
smoother movement).
Usually this procedure is done in the doctor's office. It generally
causes no more pain than drawing blood. An examination of the fluid may
reveal what is causing the inflammation, such as uric acid crystals, a
sure sign of gout,
or bacteria, a sign of infection. If crystals are found, proper
medication may be prescribed. If an infection is found, the specific
bacteria that are causing it can identified and the most effective
antibiotic can be prescribed. Pain relief Joint aspiration sometimes can relieve the pain of a badly swollen joint. Usually a corticosteroid
is injected through the needle (if an infection is not present) to
reduce inflammation for an extended period of time--up to three months
in many cases, and for months or years in a few instances.
Corticosteroids are a group of drugs related to hydrocortisone, a
natural hormone produced in the body. They are NOT the same as the
steroids some athletes take. Corticosteroids are very helpful in
reducing inflammation.
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