Synovial fluid analysis, including evaluation of white blood cell counts and matrix metalloproteinases -2 and -9 (which degrade articular cartilage), can be employed to monitor effect of treatment and predict survival in horses with septic arthritis, reported researchers from the Matrix Biology Research Group, University of Bristol School of Clinical Veterinary Science, in the United Kingdom.

Septic arthritis, an inflammation of the joint caused by bacteria, is a career-limiting condition that rapidly results in the widespread destruction of articular cartilage within the affected joint. Septic arthritis is an expensive condition to treat and is associated with a 10-15% mortality rate, despite aggressive treatment efforts.

This study evaluated 39 synovial samples from 32 horses diagnosed with septic arthritis and 39 "normal" samples from horses euthanatized for non-orthopedic conditions