Ganglionic cyst in the piriformis muscle area manifested by sciatica and intermittent claudication

Abstract

Background

To describe who experienced sciatica and intermittent claudication caused by a ganglionic cyst that had developed in the area of the piriformis muscle, and their treatment plan.

Case presentation

A 61-year-old male with left lower limb pain and intermittent claudication. No evidence of nerve compression was detected on a spinal MRI. A hip MRI revealed a cystic lesion around the piriformis muscle, which was in contact with the sciatic nerve. It was a ganglionic cyst that had developed posterior to the hip joint. We performed to surgical intervention, to remove the cyst. Subsequently, the pain relieved over time. An MRI at the time of the final examination 2 years postoperatively indicated that the ganglion had almost completely disappeared, and the pain had improved.

Conclusion

When patients present with sciatica, a ganglionic cyst originating in the hip joint must be considered in the differential diagnosis as a rare cause.