Crystal Identification, Body Fluid
Use
Identifying the presence and type of crystals in body fluid. Birefringent crystals are found in the synovial fluid of more than 90% of patients with acutely inflamed joints. Monosodium urate crystals are seen in gouty fluids and calcium pyrophosphate crystals are seen in chondrocalcinosis; urates are needle-shaped, calcium pyrophosphate often rhomboidal. Cholesterol crystals may also be observed.
Special Instructions
Powdered anticoagulants such as oxalate are themselves crystalline or may cause crystals to form; their use may cause false‑positive results or mask the presence of synovial fluid crystals definitive for the disease.
Limitations
Specimens collected with certain powdered anticoagulants (e.g., oxalate) may produce false‑positive results or obscure crystalline findings. All specimens are evaluated for suitability at Mayo Clinic Laboratories. “None seen” indicates no crystals; if present, they are identified. Day(s) performed are Monday through Sunday.
New York Approved
Methodology
Other (Compensated Polarized Light Microscopy)
Biomarkers
Result Turnaround Time
1 day
Related Documents
For more information, please review the documents below
Specimen
Body Fluid
Volume
2 mL
Minimum Volume
0.5 mL
Container
Lavender top (EDTA); Acceptable: Green top (heparin)
Causes for Rejection
All specimens will be evaluated at Mayo Clinic Laboratories for test suitability.
Stability Requirements
| Temperature | Period |
|---|---|
| Room Temperature | Ambient up to 24 hours |
| Refrigerated | Refrigerated preferred |