A synovial fluid has a high white cell count and large intracellular needlelike crystals that are yellow when the crystals are parallel to the y-axis of a red compensator. What is the likely diagnosis?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The presence of large intracellular needlelike crystals that are yellow when parallel to the y-axis of a red compensator suggests the crystals are urate, which is characteristic of gout. A high white cell count is also often seen in gout. Pseudo-gout can also have crystals seen in the synovial fluid, but these crystals are calcium pyrophosphate and are often rhomboid-shaped. Lupus erythematosus and bacterial infections typically present with different symptoms and clinical features.

A Synovial Fluid Has a High White Cell Count and Large