differential diagnoses
differentiating between two or more conditions that share similar signs and symptoms
What are Popliteal Cysts?
cysts that form in the popliteal fossa behind the knee.
When patients have popliteal cysts, they often complain of what?
swelling and pain behind the knee.
what are incidental findings?
findings you discover while performing our exams that are not related to the venous systems.
what is a baker’s cyst?
collection of synovial fluid that leaks from the knee joint
where is a baker’s cyst found?
- found in the gastrocnemius semimembransous bursa behind the knee. - usually found medial to the popliteal vessels. -at the knee level
A popliteal baker’s cyst is usually what shape?
crescent shaped
list 4 ways you would document a popliteal baker’s cyst
- measure the structure in transverse and long with calipers
- document with color and doppler showing lack of blood flow within the structure.
- attempt to get an image of the pop vessels and the baker’s cyst in the same picture showing the location in reference to the vessels.
- make sure the structure does not connect or join into the vein or artery.
what is a muscle tear?
tear in a muscle, usually happens during strenuous (using great exertion) or extreme activity
how would you document a muscle tear?
- measure size in transverse and long
- state location : example medical calf, anterior thigh
- document lack of color and doppler flow
what is lymphedema?
swelling in arm or leg caused by a lymphatic system obstruction
when there is a blockage or obstruction of the lymphatic system, what happens?
there is a build up of lymph fluid, which causes extreme swelling. (congenital lymphedema) (removal of cancerous lymph nodes)
lymphedema is commonly misdiagnosed as what?
venous edema
How does lymphedema look?
spongy
what term can be used to describe lymphedema?
elephantitis, which means thickening and swelling of the skin.
how does lymphedema look on a duplex ultrasound image?
- thick subcutaneous tissue - speckled/grainy appearance
what is adenopathy?
enlargement of lymph nodes anywhere in the body.
adenopathy is also referred to as what?
lymphadenopathy
what are symptoms of adenopathy?
-swelling -pain over site of enlarged lymph node - palpable lump or lumps in the groin, neck, or axilla
when incidentally finding an enlarged lymph node, what should you document?
-the size - whether there is blood flow within the lymph node
what can enlarged lymph nodes cause?
compression of adjacent veins, resulting in a continuous venous flow signal .
what is hematoma?
its a collection of coagulated blood within the soft tissue.
when does hematoma occur?
it occurs after an injury, accident, cardiac catheterization, surgery.
what should you document, when coming across a hematoma on in ultrasound image?
-size - whether is it compressing any surrounding vessels - whether there is or isnt blood flow by color and doppler
