synovial fluid

Introduction

Synovial fluid is a filtrate of plasma combined with hyaluronate produced by synovial cells. Small molecules such as glucose & urea & a substantial quantity of plasma proteins pass readily from plasma into synovial fluid, but larger molecules are excluded, but may enter when the synovium becomes inflammed. Resorption of synovial fluid occurs via the lymphatics. Synovial fluid acts as a lubricant & provides nutrients to the avascular articular cartilage.

More general terms

• extracellular compartment (extracellular space)
• body fluid

Additional terms

• synovial fluid analysis
• synovial membrane