IMPORTANT: We currently have a number of bugs related to image cropping and are actively trying to resolve them. In the meantime, we have disabled cropping. Apologies for any inconvenience. Stay informed: radiopaedia.org/chat

Subcutaneous bursa of lateral malleolus

Case contributed by Bahman Rasuli
Diagnosis almost certain

Presentation

Painless swelling of the lateral malleolus.

Patient Data

Age: 55 years
Gender: Male

Mortise joint effusion.

A well defined fluid equivalent signal cystic lesion superficial to lateral malleolus extending into the subcutaneous tissue.

Case Discussion

Regarding the imaging and clinical findings, the subcutaneous bursa of lateral malleolus is diagnosed.

The subcutaneous bursa of lateral malleolus is rare. The common locations of ankle bursa are retrocalcaneal bursa, subcutaneous calcaneal bursa (below the retrocalcaneal bursa) and subcutaneous bursa of the medial malleolus.

Sometimes the bursae can also be inflamed and producing the pain, named ankle bursitis.

How to use cases

You can use Radiopaedia cases in a variety of ways to help you learn and teach.

Creating your own cases is easy.

Updating… Please wait.

 Unable to process the form. Check for errors and try again.

 Thank you for updating your details.