Ruptured Baker’s Cyst in Juvenile Idiopathic Arthritis: A Report of Three Patients

Popliteal cysts occur commonly both in normal and arthritic knees. Most cysts are formed by distension of the medially situated semimembranosus bursa. Herein, we describe three children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis and ruptured popliteal cysts which produced leg complaints. Ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging were performed in the diagnosis of all cases for better evaluation of the anatomic characteristics of the cysts. In all cases, pain and swelling reduced and t hen disappeared with conservative management. In children with juvenile idiopathic arthritis who present with calf pain and swelling of leg, ruptured Baker’s cyst should be considered in the diagnosis.