Page 45 - Radiology Book

Agent
Peak
Duration
Dose/site
Hydrocortisone
Low
Short
· Small joints: 10–25 mg · Large joints: 50 mg
Methylprednisolone or triamcinolone
Med
Med
· Small joints: 2–10 mg
· Large joints: 10–80 mg
Dexamethasone
High
Long
· Small joints: 0.5–3 mg · Large joints: 2–4 mg
Betamethasone
High
Long
· Small joints: 1–3 mg · Large joints: 2–6 mg
All
Optional
Gram stain/culture
Glucose
Cell count with differential
LDH
Crystal analysis
Special
Viscosity
Cultures
Joint taPs and inJections
Synovial uid may be transported to the lab for culture
in either the original syringe (after needle removal and recapping) or after inoculation into blood culture bottles. For small amounts of uid (<2 mL), transport in the original syringe is preferred.
Corticosteroid Agents for Injections
The dose of anesthetic varies from 0.25 mL for a exor tendon sheath (trigger nger) to 5–8 mL for larger joints. Ensure no infection before injecting steroids. Mix 2–5 mL of 1% lidocaine with 1–3 mL of the injection agent.
Total Amount
Knees ........................................................ 5 mL Shoulder..................................................... 3–5 mL Fingers ....................................................... 0.5 mL
Needle Size
27-gauge....................................................Local anesthetic 22-gauge .................................................... Injection 20-gauge .................................................... Aspirate
steroids for inJections
43
labs to order on artHrocentesis
Procedures