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A dissecting popliteal cyst presenting as acute thrombophlebitis
Annals of Emergency Medicine
|July 1, 1981
Summary
A ruptured popliteal cyst mimicked deep vein thrombosis in a psoriatic arthritis patient. This case highlights the importance of considering popliteal cysts in patients with inflammatory knee conditions presenting with calf symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Orthopedics
- Vascular Surgery
- Rheumatology
Background:
- Psoriatic arthritis is a chronic inflammatory disease.
- Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) is a common vascular emergency.
- Popliteal cysts can rupture and cause calf pain and swelling.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report a case of a ruptured popliteal cyst mimicking DVT.
- To emphasize diagnostic considerations in patients with psoriatic arthritis and calf symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Case presentation of a patient with psoriatic arthritis.
- Initial clinical suspicion of acute thrombophlebitis.
- Diagnostic confirmation using arthrography.
Main Results:
- A ruptured popliteal cyst was diagnosed.
- The condition simulated acute deep vein thrombosis.
- The patient had an underlying inflammatory knee process.
Conclusions:
- Dissecting popliteal cysts can present as DVT.
- Arthrography is crucial for diagnosing ruptured popliteal cysts.
- Consider popliteal cysts in psoriatic arthritis patients with calf symptoms.