Crystals seen in the synovial fluid from a patient previously diagnosed with gout exhibit positive birefringence when observed under red compensated polarized light.The most probable cause of this discrepancy is:
A) Failure to use a blue compensator
B) Aligning the crystals parallel to the slow vibration
C) Aligning the crystals perpendicular to the slow vibration
D) The crystals are artifacts

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

When crystals are aligned perpendicular to the slow vibration, they exhibit positive birefringence. This is the case with urate crystals found in gout synovial fluid. Using a blue compensator would not correct the discrepancy, as it would only enhance the visibility of the birefringence. Aligning the crystals parallel to the slow vibration would result in negative birefringence, which is not seen in urate crystals. The crystals are not artifacts, as they are consistent with the diagnosis of gout.

Crystals Seen in the Synovial Fluid from a Patient Previously