Ruptured Baker's Cyst In A 15-year Boy

Baker's cysts or popliteal cysts are common cystic lesions surrounding the knee joint. These are prevalent among the adult population but rare in children. These are asymptomatic in majority of cases, and are identified incidentally by the parent or physician. We report a case of 15-year boy who presented to the emergency room with symptoms of calf pain and swelling for two weeks. He was in good health previously, and had no underlying knee pathology. Prior to presenting in emergency department (ED), he was suspected as deep vein thrombosis (DVT), and referred for evaluation and management. During his evaluation for DVT, the diagnosis of ruptured Baker's cyst was made on ultrasound. This was further confirmed with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of knee joint. He responded to conservative management and was discharged home after reassurance.