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Semimembranosus ganglion cyst
Suba Ananthi Kumarasamy1, Bijun Sai Kannadath1, Sandosh Soundamourthy1
1Department of Anatomy, Indira Gandhi Medical College and Research Institute, Kadirkamam, Puducherry, India.
Anatomy & Cell Biology
|October 3, 2014
Summary
An extremely rare intratendinous ganglion cyst was found within the semimembranosus tendon in the popliteal fossa. This finding highlights a rare presentation of ganglion cysts originating within a tendon.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedic Surgery
- Soft Tissue Pathology
Background:
- Ganglion cysts typically arise from joint capsules or tendon sheaths, commonly affecting the wrist and hand.
- Intratendinous origin of ganglion cysts is exceptionally rare, posing diagnostic challenges.
Observation:
- A 2.5 cm×2 cm×0.5 cm cyst was identified within the semimembranosus tendon during dissection of the popliteal fossa.
- The cyst was located 3.5 cm superior to the muscle's insertion point.
- Contrast radiography confirmed the cyst did not communicate with the knee joint or adjacent bursae.
Findings:
- Histopathological examination definitively diagnosed the lesion as a ganglion cyst.
- The cyst's origin was confirmed as intratendinous, within the semimembranosus tendon.
Implications:
- This case expands the known anatomical locations and origins of ganglion cysts.
- Understanding rare presentations is crucial for accurate diagnosis and surgical planning in soft tissue lesions.
- Further research may elucidate the specific mechanisms leading to intratendinous ganglion cyst formation.
