[Venous pseudothromosis of the lower leg after popliteal cyst rupture in rheumatoid arthritis]

During the course of only one year popliteal cyst ruptures simulating deep venous thrombosis were diagnosed in six patients with rheumatoid arthritis. The characteristic history and some specific physical findings are reported which are indicative of a pseudo-thrombophlebitis. Laboratory investigations were of limited value whereas a simplified contrast-arthrography demonstrated the synovial ruptures. In the rheumatoid patient a synovial cyst rupture rather than deep venous thrombosis should be primarily suspected and arthrography should be the first radiographic measure.