Baker's cyst

A Baker's Cyst, also known as a popliteal cyst, is a fluid-filled sac that forms in the popliteal fossa, the hollow at the back of the knee joint. This condition often arises from a buildup of synovial fluid, the lubricating fluid that facilitates smooth movement of the knee joint. While Baker's cysts can occur in both children and adults, their underlying causes and clinical presentations may differ across age groups.

In adults, these cysts are commonly associated with degenerative knee conditions, such as osteoarthritis or rheumatoid arthritis, and can also develop following a knee injury. In contrast, in children, they are often primary cysts not associated with intra-articular pathology and tend to resolve spontaneously.

Management strategies for Baker's cysts are primarily conservative, focusing on treating any underlying knee conditions and symptom relief. Surgical intervention is rare and usually reserved for cases with significant complications or where conservative management fails.

Understanding the nuances of this condition, from its pathophysiology to management, is crucial for clinicians in providing effective care and guidance to affected individuals.