What Causes A Brown Painful Spot Behind The Knee?

Posted on Fri, 4 Jul 2014

Question: I am 55 years old, have a history of venous reflux in my legs, and have undergone procedures (closure) in both legs several years ago. A few weeks ago my wife noticed a brown spot behind my left knee - it has not gone away. At first it didn't have any symptoms, but now I am now experiencing burning in that area. My leg is sore, but my legs are always sore due to the above mentioned condition. I am 5'10 and weigh 180 pounds. My father had extreme issues with both of his legs, and went through bouts of phlebitis. To complicate matters, I am to get on a plane in a week. Ideas? XXXX

Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (1 hour later)

Brief Answer:
investigate and Ortho review

Detailed Answer:
Hi XXXXXXX

I think it is needless to say that the condition you are having has a genetic inheritance and is called Varicose veins.
The local spot behind the knee is most likely a swelling from remnant vein.
There is one more possibility, it may be a cyst called Becker's cyst.

In either case there is no contraindications for taking a flight.

Check your legs if any swelling in either leg then there may be associated Deep vein thrombosis and needs urgent attention and should defer flight if this is really the case.
You should get Doppler and local ultrasound and then review to a local orthopedician for exact diagnosis.

I hope the advise would be informative and useful for you.

Take Care!

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Prasad