Ruptured Baker's Cyst

Your Path

  • Ruptured Baker's Cyst

Etiology

  • Fluid collection in popliteal fossa that develops over time related to arthritis, trauma, idiopathic
  • Communicates w/joint space
  • Can rupture spontaneously

Risk Factors

  • Increasing age
  • Arthritis

Symptoms

  • Prior to rupture, usually asymptomatic, sometimes vague discomfort behind knee
  • When ruptures, patient notes acute asymmetric lower extremity edema
  • Usually no frank pain (mild discomfort)

Physical Exam Findings

  • Asymmetric edema, raising concern for DVT
  • Pre-rupture, sometimes can identify fullness from cyst in popliteal fossa