Baker's cyst

A Baker's cyst is a fluid buildup in the bursa between two tendons located at the back of the knee. It occurs when joint fluid flows into the bursa but cannot return to the joint, accumulating there. Baker's cysts are common in older people or those with a joint injury or problem. They often cause pain and swelling in the affected joint.

Factors that may contribute to the development of Baker's cysts include:

• Repetitive injuries or trauma to the joint.
• Arthritis, as it can cause joint inflammation.
• Overweight or obesity, as it increases pressure on the joints.
• Congenital problems with the structure of the joint.
• Autoimmune diseases, such as rheumatoid arthritis, can cause joint inflammation.

It is important to note that in some cases, Baker's cysts may appear without an obvious cause.

Baker's Cyst Diagnosis

The diagnosis of a Baker's cyst is based on a combination of symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and imaging tests. Some common tests used to diagnose a Baker's cyst include:

• Physical examination: The doctor may touch and palpate the affected joint to look for signs of a cyst, such as a lump or a soft, swollen mass on the back of the knee or elbow.
• Ultrasound: This is a noninvasive technique useful for detecting Baker's cysts and assessing their size.
• MRI: This is a useful technique for detecting Baker's cysts and assessing their size and relationship to surrounding tissues.

Baker's Cyst Treatment
Once a Baker's cyst is diagnosed, the doctor may recommend treatment to reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling, and to prevent the cyst from growing or recurring.

Treatment for a Baker's cyst can be conservative or surgical. Conservative treatment includes the use of pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications to relieve pain and inflammation. Ultrasound can also be used to drain the cyst and relieve compressive symptoms, especially when the cyst is large. Ultrasound-guided corticosteroid injections can relieve pain and reduce inflammation. If these treatments are ineffective or if the cyst is causing significant problems, surgery to remove it may be recommended.

Example of Baker's cyst drainage:

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