Synovial Fluid Alpha-1 Antitrypsin (Mass Concentration)
This test measures the level of alpha-1 antitrypsin, a protein that helps protect joints and tissues from damage caused by enzymes. It may be used to assess inflammation or joint conditions.
["Alpha-1 antitrypsin in synovial fluid can help diagnose or monitor joint-related disorders."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 23302-3
- Short code
- M synoviae Ab Ser Ql HA
- Synonyms
- M synoviae Ab Ser Ql HA
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Ref low
- 1.5
- Ref high
- 9
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- ha
- CPT
- 83002
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
Why This Test Might Be Ordered
Your healthcare provider may recommend this test if you have symptoms like joint pain, swelling, or stiffness that suggest conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, gout, or other inflammatory joint diseases. It can also be part of evaluating persistent joint issues that don’t respond to standard treatments.
What to Expect Before the Test
You’ll likely have a small amount of fluid drawn from your joint (usually a knee or shoulder) using a needle. The procedure is quick and usually doesn’t require anesthesia. You may feel some discomfort or bruising afterward, but it’s generally well-tolerated.
What the Results Mean
Elevated levels of alpha-1 antitrypsin in synovial fluid may indicate inflammation or an underlying condition affecting your joints. Lower levels could be part of normal variation or related to certain medical conditions. Your provider will interpret results in the context of your symptoms and overall health.
Common Conditions Monitored
This test is often used alongside other evaluations to help diagnose or monitor conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, crystal-induced arthritis (e.g., gout), or other inflammatory joint diseases. It may also be used to assess the effectiveness of treatments.
Reference range
Follicular: 1.5-9.0 mIU/mLN/A
For females: inform if menstrual cycle status. For certain tests, timing within menstrual cycle may matter.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
Alpha-1 antitrypsin in synovial fluid serves as a marker for joint inflammation or damage. Elevated levels may suggest an active inflammatory process, such as rheumatoid arthritis or other autoimmune conditions. It can also help identify conditions where enzymes are overactive, potentially causing joint erosion or tissue damage. Your provider will use these results to guide treatment decisions, such as adjusting medications or exploring targeted therapies.
Short name
Alpha-1 Antitrypsin in Synovial Fluid
Frequently asked questions
What does an abnormal result mean?
How often will I need this test?
Can I prepare for this test in any way?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy