Learn what is synovial fluid and synovial fluid function. Understand the location and composition of synovial fluid , as well as how it is produced... A synovial fluid analysis is performed when pain, inflammation, or swelling occurs in a joint, or when there’s an accumulation of fluid with an unknown cause. Synovial fluid is formed by the ultrafiltration of plasma across the synovial membrane and from secretions by synoviocytes. The resultant viscous fluid serves as a lubricant for the joint and is the sole nutrient source for the metabolically active articular cartilage, which lacks blood vessels, lymphatics, and nerves. The composition of synovial fluid is unique in that its glucose and uric acid concentrations are equivalent to that of the blood plasma; however its total protein and ...
