CT appearance of the distended trochanteric bursa

The CT appearance of the distended trochanteric bursa noted in an asymptomatic patient is reported. The bursal distension was noted incidentally in a patient undergoing staging for renal cell carcinoma. On CT the distended bursa was noted as a septated low attenuation lesion at the site of insertion of the gluteus medius and minimus muscles on the greater trochanter of the femur. The lesion was not associated with any degenerative changes in the hip or greater trochanter. Distension of the trochanteric bursa may occur in asymptomatic patients and the appearance of the distended bursa must be recognized on imaging studies to avoid confusing it with other lesions.