Popliteal Cyst
Popliteal Cyst Causes
Overproduction of synovial fluid may result to popliteal cyst. This condition may also be caused by a knee injury, especially a cartilage tear.
Popliteal Cyst Definition
Popliteal cyst, also known as the baker's cyst, is a condition in which a bulge, and a feeling of pain and tightness behind the knee is experienced. The pain gets worse upon extension of the knee.
Popliteal Cyst Diagnosis
A noninvasive imaging test, such as an ultrasound, or a magnetic resonance imaging scan, may help diagnose popliteal cyst and rule out simple cyst. If your doctor suspects a blood clot in your leg (deep vein thrombosis) or an aneurysm, he or she may suggest an ultrasound of your leg or other tests.
Popliteal Cyst Symptoms and Signs
Among the symptoms of popliteal cyst are pain in the knee, swelling behind the knee and in the leg, and stiffness. In some cases however, popliteal cyst causes no pain.
Popliteal Cyst Treatment
Usually, no treatment is required for popliteal cyst. Instead, physicians determine and treat its underlying cause. However, if the cyst is large and painful, it may be treated through corticosteroid medication, physical therapy, and fluid drainage through needle aspiration.