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Lab Tests.

Last updated Tuesday, January 04, 2005

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Joint fluid tests

What is joint 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.

Can joint aspiration provide 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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