Changes in synovial fluid in different knee-joint diseases ☆ ☆☆

Abstract Objective To analyse the changes in synovial fluid (SF) in the most common knees joint diseases, and to establish a relationship according to its concentration. Material and methods A total of 62 synovial fluids were analysed from knees with, meniscus disease (32), anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) (17) and isolated chondral injury (13). A quantitative and quality study was performed on each sample, which included cytokines IL-1, IL-2, IL-6, IL-10, TNF-α, and growth factors (IGF-1 and TGF-β). Results The SF environment in the ACL injury was mainly anabolic and inflammatory, with increased levels of IL1, IL6, significant levels of TGF-β ( P  = .02 and P  = .004), IL-10 ( P  = .046 and P  = .047) and significantly decreased levels of TNF-α ( P  = .02 and P  = .004). There was mainly a catabolic environment in chondral and meniscal disease, with a significant increase in TNF-α and a significant decrease in TGF-β ( P  = .02 and P  = .004). The differences were greater in the case of isolated chondral injury. Conclusion The changes observed show that, as well as the biomechanical changes, the SF has a negative effect on joint homeostasis, leaving its composition varying depending upon the type of pathology.