Lecture on Synovial and Serous Fluids

A set of flashcards summarizing key terminology and concepts related to synovial and serous fluids from the lecture.

Synovial fluid

Joint fluid important for bathing and lubricating joints.

Synovial membrane

Lining of joint space composed of different types of synovial sites.

Collagenase

A degraded enzyme produced by phagocytic synovial sites.

Hyaluroninate

A mucopolysaccharide that gives synovial fluid its unique viscosity.

Arthrocentesis

The collection of synovial fluid.

Viscosity

A measure of a fluid's resistance to flow; normal synovial fluid is viscous.

Septic arthritis

Joint inflammation caused by bacterial or fungal infections.

Transudate

Fluid resulting from systemic diseases, characterized by low protein content.

Exudate

Fluid resulting from local inflammatory processes, characterized by high protein content.

Ascites

Accumulation of fluid in the peritoneal cavity.

Chylothorax

A milky appearing fluid in the pleural cavity due to disrupted lymphatic drainage.

Mesothelial cells

Cells that line the serous membranes and can be confused with macrophages.

LE cells

Neutrophils or macrophages that have engulfed nuclear material, often associated with lupus.

Physical examination of fluid

First step in analysis, assessing color and clarity of joint or serous fluid.

Cytocentrifuge

A device used to prepare samples for viewing under a microscope.

Gram stain

A laboratory technique used to identify bacterial presence in fluid samples.

Uric acid

A substance that, when elevated in synovial fluid, may indicate gout.

Lactate

A metabolic byproduct, elevated levels in synovial fluid may indicate anaerobic conditions.

Hyaluronidase

An enzyme that decreases viscosity of synovial fluid during inflammation.

Bifringent crystals

Crystals that exhibit different colors when viewed under polarized light.

Monosodium urate

The crystal type associated with gout.

Calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate

The crystal type associated with pseudogout.

Paracentesis

Procedure for collecting any serous fluid from a body cavity.

Total protein

A measurement in fluid analysis, indicating possible inflammatory processes.

Chemical analysis

Lab tests to measure various components in synovial or serous fluids.