Popliteal cyst

Most popliteal cysts are asymptomatic and found incidentally on duplex ultrasound. In this clinical setting, no treatment is required, but other tests may be performed to further evaluate underlying knee pathology. Popliteal cysts can be annoying and painful, but they do not cause any long-term harm or disability. Accurate diagnosis can be obtained with ultrasound of the leg.

Symptomatic patients should be advised of conservative therapy. Popliteal cysts usually regress, but how quickly this occurs varies from person to person. Those refractory to conservative treatment should seek evaluation by an orthopaedic specialist for underlying knee joint pathology. The most common underlying pathologies include trauma and arthritis in the knee joint. Treatment of the underlying pathology may result in improvement of symptoms and regression of the cyst. MedlinePlus: Baker cyst Opens in new window