GS152-2

Gram – Joint fluid: neutrophils – No bacteria

HISTORY

A simulated joint fluid smear collected from a 66 year old female patient with rheumatoid arthritis was sent to category A, B, C, and C1 laboratories.

Participants were expected to report neutro-phils and the absence of bacteria.

MAIN EDUCATIONAL POINTS from GS152-2

1. Patients with underlying rheumatological conditions are at a greater risk for septic arthritis and joint aspiration is required to rule out concurrent infection. When in doubt, aspirate.

 

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