Comparative distribution of proteins and glycoproteins of serum and synovial fluid

Abstract

The distribution of proteins and glycoproteins in the synovial fluid and serum of normal patients and those with rheumatoid arthritis and other rheumatic diseases is presented. Joint disease tends to result in similar concentrations of protein in both serum and synovial fluid. Of particular interest is the distribution of alpha2 glycoprotein. The relative concentration of this high molecular weight substance between serum and synovial fluid seems to be a most sensitive index of the semipermeability of the synovial membrane.