DNA microfluorometry of synovial effusion cells in rheumatic diseases.

A microfluorometric study of relative DNA content in lymphocytes and granulocytes from the synovial fluid of 26 patients with rheumatoid arthritis or seronegative reactive arthritis was carried out. Results obtained from individuals without treatment or treated with nonsteroid anti-inflammatory drugs were compared with measurements of 7 healthy persons. DNA content in granulocytes was more sensitive to effects of disease or therapy than in lymphocytes. Introduction of therapy resulted in decreased percentage of cells in synthetizing or mitotic phase of the cell division cycle (microfluorometric index showing non G0 (G1 population]. A possible local influence of regulatory substances produced in the arthritic joint on DNA metabolism of both cells under study was suggested.