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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

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Illustration showing Baker's cyst 
Baker's cyst

A Baker's cyst is a fluid-filled cyst that causes a bulge and a feeling of tightness behind your knee. The pain can get worse when you fully flex or extend your knee or when you're active.

A Baker's cyst, also called a popliteal cyst, is usually the result of a problem with your knee joint, such as arthritis or a cartilage tear. Both conditions can cause your knee to produce too much fluid, which can lead to a Baker's cyst.

Although a Baker's cyst may cause swelling and make you uncomfortable, treating the probable underlying problem usually provides relief.

References
  1. Foley BA, et al. Injection therapy of bursitis and tendinitis. In: Roberts JR, et al. Clinical Procedures in Emergency Medicine. 5th ed. Maryland Heights, Mo.: Saunders Elsevier; 2009. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/184552931-3/955852100/2083/443.html#4-u1.0-B978-1-4160-3623-4..00052-3--s0245_2527. Accessed Feb. 19, 2010.
  2. Rupp S, et al. Popliteal cysts in adults. American Journal of Sports Medicine. 2002;30:112.
  3. Handy JR. Popliteal cysts in adults: A review. Seminars in Arthritis and Rheumatism. 2001;31:108.
  4. Cleveland KB. Nontraumatic soft-tissue disorders. In: Canale ST, et al. Campbell's Operative Orthopaedics. 11th ed. Philadelphia, Pa.: Mosby Elsevier; 2007. http://www.mdconsult.com/das/book/body/184837580-2/0/1584/169.html?tocnode=55686842&fromURL=169.html#4-u1.0-B978-0-323-03329-9..50027-1--cesec17_905. Accessed Feb. 19, 2010.
  5. Centeno CJ, et al. Sclerotherapy of Baker's cyst with imaging confirmation of resolution. Pain Physician. 2008;11:257.
  6. Laskowski ER (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Feb. 24, 2010.
DS00448 April 3, 2010

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