Table of Contents
- Overview
- Symptoms
- Treatment
- Prevention
- Images
Baker's cyst is a buildup of joint fluid (synovial fluid) that forms behind the knee.
Alternative Names
Popliteal cyst; Bulge-knee
Causes, incidence, and risk factors
A Baker's cyst is caused by swelling in the knee. The swelling is due to an increase in synovial fluid - the fluid that lubricates the knee joint. When pressure builds up, fluid bulges into the back of the knee.
Baker's cyst commonly occurs with:
- A tear in the meniscal cartilage of the knee
- Knee arthritis (in older adults)
Rheumatoid arthritis - Other knee problems
Images
Review Date: 06/13/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of
Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of
Medicine; and C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief,
Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of
Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical
Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org)
