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Symptoms

By Mayo Clinic staff

In some cases, a Baker's cyst causes no pain, and you may not even notice it. If you do experience signs and symptoms, you may notice:

  • Swelling behind your knee, and sometimes in your leg
  • Knee pain
  • Stiffness
  • Texture similar to a balloon filled with water

When to see a doctor
If you're experiencing pain and swelling behind your knee, see your doctor to determine the cause. Though unlikely, a bulge behind your knee may be a sign of a more serious condition, such as a tumor or a popliteal artery aneurysm, rather than a fluid-filled cyst.

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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