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ACL mucoid degeneration with cysts

Case contributed by: Dr Roberto Schubert

Presentation:

Slowly progressive chronic knee pain. No previous trauma.

Patient Data:

Age: 45
Gender: Male
Race: Middle eastern
From the case: ACL mucoid degeneration with cysts

Preoperative MRI with contrast

Modality: MRI

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T1

Thickening of the whole ACL with cystic cavities within its proximal portion. There is marked contrast enhancement around the cysts, possibly caused by granulation tissue.

From the case: ACL mucoid degeneration with cysts

10 months after arthroscopic debulking ofthe ACL

Modality: MRI
  • High-res T2
High-res T2

The cysts have been totally resected.

Case Discussion:

Mucoid degeneration of the ACL is a rare condition that may lead to diffuse knee pain either in itself or by the formation of ganglion cysts.

References:

  1. Lintz F, Pujol N, Boisrenoult P et-al. Anterior cruciate ligament mucoid degeneration: a review of the literature and management guidelines. Knee Surg Sports Traumatol Arthrosc. 2011;19 (8): 1326-33. doi:10.1007/s00167-011-1433-0 - Pubmed citation
  2. Kumar A, Bickerstaff DR, Grimwood JS et-al. Mucoid cystic degeneration of the cruciate ligament. J Bone Joint Surg Br. 1999;81 (2): 304-5. J Bone Joint Surg Br (link) - Pubmed citation

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