In synovial fluid analysis, which range indicates non-inflammatory arthritis?

• A. 1,000-5,000
• B. Less than 2,000
• C. 5,000-20,000
• D. 20,000-50,000

Answer: (B)

Evaluating synovial fluid, the white blood cell count helps distinguish non-inflammatory from inflammatory arthritis. In non-inflammatory arthritis, the WBC count is low, typically under 2,000 cells per microliter, with little neutrophil predominance. This reflects the absence of intense joint inflammation. Inflammatory arthritis usually shows higher counts—thousands to tens of thousands per microliter—with a neutrophil-dominant picture. So the range under 2,000 cells/µL best indicates non-inflammatory arthritis; the other ranges align with inflammatory processes.