title: Preanalytical Considerations for Joint Fluid Evaluation.
abstract: Synovial fluid analysis is a key component of the minimum database needed to diagnose and manage primary and secondary articular joint disorders. Unfortunately, preanalytical variables can drastically alter samples submitted for evaluation to veterinary laboratories and it is considered the stage at which most laboratory error occurs. This article addresses common sources of preanalytical variability and error that are seen in veterinary medicine. With consistent quality control and reporting of specimens, downstream clinical decision making and management of patients can be accelerated and improved.
authors.affiliation: Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 1644 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
authors.forename: Caitlyn R
authors.initials: CR
authors.lastname: Martinez
authors.affiliation: Department of Microbiology, Immunology, and Pathology, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, 1644 Campus Delivery, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA. Electronic address: kelly.santangelo@colostate.edu.
authors.forename: Kelly S
authors.initials: KS
authors.lastname: Santangelo
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003584:Cytological Techniques / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D013048:Specimen Handling / Q000379:methods / Q000662:veterinary*; D013582:Synovial Fluid / Q000166:cytology*
keywords: Immune-mediated polyarthropathy; Orthopedics; Osteoarthritis; Septic arthritis; Synovial fluid