Which characteristic is NOT typical of normal synovial fluid?

In normal synovial fluid, the characteristics typically observed include clarity, a non-turbid appearance, and a slightly viscous or sticky texture due to the presence of hyaluronic acid, which contributes to its lubricating properties. The normative description of synovial fluid emphasizes its role in joint lubrication and shock absorption, which is supported by these attributes.

A high cell count is not typical of normal synovial fluid, as it usually contains very few cells (approximately 100 cells per microliter or less) predominantly consisting of lymphocytes, macrophages, and mesenchymal cells. An increased cell count can indicate inflammation or pathological conditions such as arthritis, infection, or other joint disorders. Therefore, high cell counts are not a characteristic of healthy synovial fluid, making this the correct choice for the question.