A synovial fluid analysis is a group of tests that detect changes in synovial fluid. Synovial

fluid is the liquid that surrounds and lubricates joints. When patients have swollen, painful

joints, a synovial fluid analysis can give valuable information about the underlying source of

the problem. A number of tests can be conducted on synovial fluid after it is extracted from

the joint space during a procedure called arthrocentesis. The appearance of synovial fluid, as

well as its chemical properties, microscopic composition, and other signs of infectious

disease may be analyzed.