Baker’s cyst

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Baker's cyst

Baker's cyst is a buildup of joint fluid (synovial fluid) that forms behind the knee.

Popliteal cyst; Bulge-knee

A Baker's cyst is caused by swelling in the knee. The swelling is due to an increase in synovial fluid - the fluid that lubricates the knee joint. When pressure builds up, fluid bulges into the back of the knee.

Baker's cyst commonly occurs with:

• A tear in the meniscal cartilage of the knee
• Knee arthritis (in older adults)
• Rheumatoid arthritis
• Other knee problems

Review Date: 06/13/2010
Reviewed By: Linda J. Vorvick, MD, Medical Director, MEDEX Northwest Division of Physician Assistant Studies, University of Washington, School of Medicine; and C. Benjamin Ma, MD, Assistant Professor, Chief, Sports Medicine and Shoulder Service, UCSF Department of Orthopaedic Surgery. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

A.D.A.M., Inc. is accredited by URAC, also known as the American Accreditation HealthCare Commission (www.urac.org).

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