Crystal Analysis by Polarization Microscopy

Label Mnemonic:	SYNC
Epic code:	LAB7525
Order form:	Laboratory Requisition
Supply order:	Supply Order Form
Billing:	Billing Policies
CPT code:	89060

Specimen(s):

Synovial Fluid, Tophus

Collection Medium:

	or
Lavender top tube 3 mL (EDTA)	or	Green top tube 4 mL (Na Heparin)

Minimum:

1) several drops in syringe, minimum volume needed; prefer 1 mL in
   EDTA tube.
2) material removed from tophus by needle core procedure placed in EDTA
   tube.
3) sodium heparin tube for crystal analysis only, not body fluid
   counts.

Testing Schedule:

24 hrs/day, 7 days a week, including holidays.

Turn Around Time:

3 hours (upon receipt in laboratory)

Reference Range:

Absence of monosodium urate (MSU) and calcium pyrophosphate dihydrate (CPPD) crystals.

Comments:

Results posted in Epic under both Chart Review: Lab tab and Result Review.

Methodology:

Wet prep microscopy with polarizer and red compensator

Sample Processing:

Specimen source is required on requisition for processing.
Lavender tube is sent as whole blood, no processing necessary.

Sample Storage:

Maintain specimen at room temperature or refrigerated.

Transport Instructions:

Place labeled specimen into zip-lock type biohazard bag; seal bag.
Place requisition into outside pocket of bag.
Ship at room temperature or refrigerate.