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Complications

By Mayo Clinic staff

Rarely, a Baker's cyst bursts and synovial fluid leaks into the calf region causing:

  • Sharp pain in your knee
  • Swelling
  • Sometimes, redness of your calf or a feeling of water running down your calf

These signs and symptoms closely resemble those of a blood clot in a vein in your leg. If you have swelling and redness of your calf, you'll need prompt medical evaluation.

Preparing for your appointment Causes
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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