Current trends in crystal identification.
OBJECTIVE
This review is an attempt to keep current in the sparse literature addressing the still underutilized area of crystal identification.


RESULTS
The emphasis has been on the subtleties of the microscopic identification of common crystals and other less common potentially confusing crystals. Imaging is noted to provide increasing help, but microscopic crystal identification remains the gold standard.


CONCLUSIONS
Quality control is still a concern as is the infrequency of attempted arthrocentesis for crystal identification.
Chen
Lan X
LX
VA Medical Center, Rheumatology Research 151K, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104, USA.
Schumacher
H Ralph
HR
D002114:Calcinosis / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D002130:Calcium Phosphates / Q000032:analysis; D003951:Diagnostic Errors / Q000517:prevention & control; D005189:False Positive Reactions; D006073:Gout / Q000175:diagnosis* / Q000503:physiopathology; D006801:Humans; D007596:Joints / Q000473:pathology* / Q000503:physiopathology*; D015588:Observer Variation; D013582:Synovial Fluid / Q000737:chemistry*; D014527:Uric Acid / Q000032:analysis
D002130:Calcium Phosphates; C494369:calcium phosphate, dihydrate; D014527:Uric Acid