The differential diagnosis for a popliteal fossa mass includes meniscal or ganglion cysts, soft tissue tumors, and aneurysms. However, a popliteal synovial cyst, or “Baker’s cyst,” is far more common, especially in a patient with underlying joint disease. Clinicians can make the diagnosis through physical exam alone, on the basis of a positive Foucher’s sign, but ultrasound can also be helpful in ruling out other diagnoses. The main ingredient of treatment is targeting the underlying knee pathology, but corticosteroids can be effective in treating symptoms.
Comment
The differential diagnosis for a popliteal fossa mass includes meniscal or ganglion cysts, soft tissue tumors, and aneurysms. However, a popliteal synovial cyst, or “Baker’s cyst,” is far more common, especially in a patient with underlying joint disease. Clinicians can make the diagnosis through physical exam alone, on the basis of a positive Foucher’s sign, but ultrasound can also be helpful in ruling out other diagnoses. The main ingredient of treatment is targeting the underlying knee pathology, but corticosteroids can be effective in treating symptoms.