Histomorphology of idiopathic and symptomatic popliteal cysts

Thirty popliteal cysts, classified on the basis of clinical arthrographic findings as 12 idiopathic and 18 symptomatic lesions, were examined by light and scanning microscopy. The histopathology varied considerably and did not allow a valid distinction between the two types of cysts. Nevertheless, careful histopathologic examination of surgically removed popliteal cysts is advisable for exclusion of malignancy and for consideration of the presenting symptom as part of an inflammatory arthritic disorder.