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Last updated: June 13, 2025View editorial policy

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Differential Diagnosis for Ruptured Baker Cyst

Single Most Likely Diagnosis

  • Ruptured Baker cyst: This is the most likely diagnosis given the presentation, as a ruptured Baker cyst typically presents with sudden onset of pain and swelling in the calf, mimicking a deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other acute conditions.

Other Likely Diagnoses

  • Deep vein thrombosis (DVT): DVT can present similarly to a ruptured Baker cyst, with pain, swelling, and warmth in the affected leg. It's essential to consider DVT due to its potential for serious complications, such as pulmonary embolism.
  • Cellulitis: An infection of the skin and subcutaneous tissues, cellulitis can cause redness, swelling, and pain in the affected area, which might be confused with a ruptured Baker cyst.
  • Muscle strain or tear: Injury to the muscles in the calf can lead to pain and swelling, potentially mimicking the symptoms of a ruptured Baker cyst.

Do Not Miss Diagnoses

  • Popliteal artery aneurysm: Although less common, a ruptured popliteal artery aneurysm can present with sudden pain and swelling in the calf and is a medical emergency requiring immediate attention.
  • Phlebitis or thrombophlebitis: Inflammation of the veins due to a blood clot can cause pain, swelling, and warmth, similar to a ruptured Baker cyst, and requires prompt treatment to prevent complications.

Rare Diagnoses

  • Calf hematoma: Bleeding into the muscle or soft tissue of the calf can cause pain and swelling, but it's less common and might not be the first consideration without a history of trauma.
  • Soft tissue tumor: Although rare, a soft tissue tumor in the calf could potentially cause swelling and pain, but this would typically be a more gradual onset and might be associated with other systemic symptoms.
  • Vasculitis: Inflammation of the blood vessels can cause a variety of symptoms, including pain and swelling in the legs, but this is a less common condition and usually presents with other systemic symptoms.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

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