Causes
A Baker cyst is caused by swelling in the knee. The swelling is due to an increase in the fluid that lubricates the knee joint (synovial fluid). When pressure builds up, fluid squeezes into the back of the knee.
Baker cyst commonly occurs with:
- A tear in the meniscal cartilage of the knee
- Cartilage injuries
- Knee arthritis (in older adults)
- Rheumatoid arthritis
- Other knee problems that cause knee swelling
Symptoms
A large cyst may cause some discomfort or stiffness, but there are often no symptoms. There may be a painless or painful swelling behind the knee.
The cyst may feel like a water-filled balloon. Sometimes, the cyst may break open, causing pain, swelling, and bruising on the back of the knee and calf.
It is important to know whether pain or swelling is caused by a Baker cyst or a blood clot. A blood clot (deep venous thrombosis) can also cause pain, swelling, and bruising on the back of the knee and calf. A blood clot may be dangerous and requires medical attention right away.
Diagnosis
During a physical exam, the health care provider will look for a soft lump in the back of the knee. If the cyst is small, comparing the affected knee to the normal knee can be helpful. There may be a decrease in range of motion caused by pain or by the size of the cyst. In some cases, there will be catching, locking, pain, or other signs and symptoms of a meniscal tear.
Shining a light through the cyst can show that the growth is fluid filled.
X-rays will not show the cyst or a meniscal tear, but they will show other problems that may be present, including arthritis.
MRIs can help the provider see the cyst and look for any meniscal injury.
Treatment
Often, no treatment is needed. The provider can watch the cyst over time.
If the cyst is painful, the goal of treatment is to correct the problem that is causing the cyst.
Sometimes, a cyst can be drained. In rare cases, it is removed with surgery if it becomes very large or causes symptoms. The cyst has a high chance of returning if the cause is not addressed. The surgery may also damage nearby blood vessels and nerves.
Recovery
A Baker cyst will not cause any long-term harm, but it can be annoying and painful. The symptoms of Baker cysts often come and go.
Long-term disability is rare. Most people improve with time or arthroscopic surgery.
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